You may get cancer due to prolonged exposure to carcinogenic (cancer-causing) particles within the workplace. Leaving your job to prevent cancer is clearly an extreme measure, so it is important to protect yourself properly at work and conduct regular health check-ups following possible exposure.
Here’s what we know:
- Over 5,000 cases of cancer per year may be due to occupational exposure to carcinogens.
- Exposure is most common amongst farmers, drivers, transport workers, and those in trade industries, and is more common in males.
- Skin cancer is considered an occupational cancer for those impacted by direct sun exposure.
- Workplace cancer is more common in those who are regularly exposed to industrial chemicals, dusts, metals, and combustion products, including asbestos and engine exhaust.
- Sedentary behaviour in office workers contributes to a higher risk of cancer morbidity.
Remember:
- Prevention is better than cure! See here for workplace prevention resources.
- Cancer can develop over many years, so during check-ups tell your GP your occupation and the types of carcinogens you are exposed to.
- Compensation for work-related cancers is available in many circumstances.
Read more about Can Too’s investment in cancer research, and everyday strategies for cancer prevention.
