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Causes of death among lumberjacks--a pilot study
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|June 1, 1980
Summary
Swedish lumberjacks experienced higher rates of violent death and circulatory diseases compared to the general male population. Cancer mortality was lower, though specific risks for kidney and lymphatic cancers were elevated.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Lumberjacking is an occupation with inherent physical and environmental risks.
- Understanding mortality patterns in specific occupational groups is crucial for targeted health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes of death among male lumberjacks in Sweden.
- To compare their mortality rates with the general Swedish male population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study of 375 union-affiliated male lumberjacks in Sweden.
- Proportional mortality analysis comparing lumberjacks to general Swedish male mortality.
- Case-referent analysis for specific cancer types.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated mortality from violent death observed.
- Slightly increased mortality from ischemic heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and other circulatory diseases.
- Lower than expected mortality for all cancers and other causes.
- Increased standard mortality ratio for kidney cancer and cancers of the lymphatic and hematopoietic system.
Conclusions:
- Swedish lumberjacks face distinct occupational health risks, notably higher violent death rates.
- While overall cancer rates are lower, specific cancer types like kidney and lymphatic cancers present an increased risk.
- Further research into occupational exposures and lifestyle factors is warranted.