For centuries, it’s been known that some jobs come with risks of exposure to harmful substances, leading to chronic illnesses. Even if you love your job, it might be making you sick.
Despite all the safety measures companies have put in place, certain occupations can still harm your health. This is often due to exposure to various toxins. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that exposure to workplace carcinogens is responsible for about 3-6% of all cancers. Common occupational cancers include lung cancer, bladder cancer, and mesothelioma. So, whether you’re choosing a career or already working, it’s crucial to know the risks involved.
Construction workers face significant cancer risks from exposure to hazardous materials like wood dust, silica, cement, insulation, and drywall products. Asbestos, in particular, is a major health threat and a leading cause of death among construction workers. Long-term exposure can lead to mesothelioma and lung cancer. Additionally, chemicals and fumes from solvents, acids, industrial cleaners, paints, flammable materials, and gasoline can cause breathing problems.
Plastic manufacturing workers are also at risk. They’re often exposed to harmful substances like vinyl chloride, trichloroethylene, cadmium, and arsenic. Studies have shown that women in this industry may face hormone disruption and a higher risk of breast cancer. Likewise, working in rubber factories can increase the chances of developing cancers of the lymphatic system, stomach, bladder, and blood.
Mineworkers often deal with extreme conditions and health problems that can lead to different cancers. Uranium and iron miners are exposed to radiation, which can cause lung cancer, while coal miners inhale coal dust that can lead to chronic stomach conditions. Diesel exhaust exposure from drilling equipment can cause respiratory issues and other acute health effects. Miners who are regularly exposed to these fumes are at a higher risk of lung cancer.
While the airline business might seem glamorous, it has its own set of health risks. Flight attendants and pilots are at twice the risk of developing melanoma due to increased ionizing radiation at high altitudes. They also face higher risks of stomach, cervical, breast, colon, pancreatic, and thyroid cancers. Female flight attendants have a 50% higher chance of developing breast cancer compared to non-flight attendants.
Welders are exposed to welding fumes, which contain carcinogens like fluorides, metallic oxides, and silicate. This exposure can lead to cancers such as melanoma, kidney, and lung cancer, as well as ocular melanoma and eye burns. Health issues often arise after years of working with these hazardous substances.
Even with strict regulations banning hazardous materials, unintentional exposure can still occur. Before starting any high-risk job, it’s important to investigate the safety measures your company has in place. If you’re already in such a job, regular health checkups with your doctor are recommended to ensure your well-being.
