Lung cancer, smoking and smelter work in a occupational cohort

A cohort of employees at a smelter in Northern Sweden has been updated with the addition of information regarding smoking habits to evaluate the role of smoking in the occurrence of lung cancer in various job categories and employment cohorts. An updated analysis of earlier studies of the interaction between roaster work and smoking is also reported. The cohort members first employed during the period 1928-1979 have been followed up to 1 January 1988. Information regarding smoking habits for 69% of the cohort was gathered in a questionnaire study.

The prevalence of daily smoking decreased during the study period and was lower for salaried employees. The figures were, however, comparable with national figures for similar social and occupational strata. Adjustment for smoking did not alter the lung cancer gradient between employment cohorts or between job categories.

The interaction between smoking and roaster work was confirmed and the benefits from ceasing to smoke shown to be greater among the roaster workers.