Eliminating Occupational Cancer in Europe and Globally

Abstract

This working paper presents arguments for a stronger policy to eradicate occupational cancer in Europe and globally.

The cancer epidemic is a major public health concern all over the world. There is an increasing awareness of the role of working conditions as a central determinant of social inequalities with regard to cancer.

The working paper presents a consistent estimation of the burden calculated on the basis of established exposures. It also summarises the basic principles of effective prevention and calls for systematic action on the part of the various stakeholders. It assumes that occupational cancers are eliminable and that prevention could save many workers’ lives and contribute considerably to the public health of European citizens.

Keywords: occupational disease; cancer; carcinogens; asbestos; exposure; EU countries