Cancer risk among workers of a secondary aluminium smelter

Background

Cancer risk in secondary aluminium production is not well described. Workers in this industry are exposed to potentially carcinogenic agents from secondary smelters that reprocess aluminium scrap.

Aims

To evaluate cancer risk in workers in a secondary aluminium plant in Spain.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of male workers employed at an aluminium secondary smelter (1960–92). Exposure histories and vital status through 2011 were obtained through personal interviews and hospital records, respectively. Standardized mortality (SMRs) and incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated.

Results

The study group consisted of 98 workers. We found increased incidence and mortality from bladder cancer [SIR = 2.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23–5.62; SMR = 5.90, 95% CI 1.58–15.11]. Increased incidence was also observed for prostate cancer and all other cancers but neither were statistically significant. No increased risk was observed for lung cancer.

Conclusions

Results of this study suggest that work at secondary aluminium smelters is associated with bladder cancer risk. Identification of occupational carcinogens in this industry is needed.

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