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Lung Cancer Awareness 2024: The Occupational Link

Published on Posted on 18 November 202418 November 2024

Each November, we observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to shed light on one of the most common and deadly cancers affecting 2.5 million people worldwide. This month is dedicated to raising awareness of the environmental and occupational risk factors that contribute to the disease, as well as promoting early detection to improve outcomes.

Research indicates that approximately 15-20% of lung cancer cases are linked to environmental causes, such as air pollution and exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. Therefore, it is crucial to understand risk factors in your workplace that may increase your likelihood of developing lung cancer.

While it’s impossible to say the exact number of diagnoses that are attributable to workplace exposures, about 5000 people are diagnosed with work-related cancers each year.

Earlier this year a joint study between the University of Sydney and Curtin University found that as many as 46,000 Australian welders are exposed to high levels of dangerous, potentially cancer-causing fumes at work. A 2022 Curtin University study estimated that over 100,000 silicosis suffers will develop lung cancer in their lifetime.

Studies suggest that the number of occupationally caused cancers that are compensated equates to less than eight per cent of diagnoses. This could be due to the difficulties in proving causation, and the long latency period between exposure and most diagnoses; or because of a lack of awareness and linked between cancers and occupations.

Understanding Lung Cancer Types

Lung cancer begins when abnormal cells in the lung tissue grow uncontrollably, forming tumours that can disrupt normal lung function. The two main types of lung cancer are:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): The most prevalent type, accounting for approximately 85% of cases.
• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): A more aggressive and fast-growing form, typically linked to smoking.

While smoking remains a significant risk factor, it is essential to remember that smoking does not necessarily preclude entitlement to compensation.

Key Occupational Risk Factors

1. Exposure to Asbestos: Commonly used in construction and insulation materials in the past, asbestos fibres can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to increased lung cancer risk and mesothelioma.
2. Silica (Crystalline Silica) is present in sand, stone, and mineral ores, commonly encountered in construction, mining, and glassmaking. Inhaling fine silica dust can damage lung tissue and increase the likelihood of developing lung cancer.
3. PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) are chemical compounds formed during the incomplete combustion of coal, oil, gas, wood, and tobacco. Inhalation or skin contact with PAHs, often found in industrial and urban settings, is associated with lung cancer.
4. Diesel engine exhaust is a blend of gases and particulates emitted from diesel engines. Classified as carcinogenic, it is associated with higher lung cancer risks for those exposed to it regularly, including workers in transportation and heavy machinery sectors.
5. Radon Gas: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes and buildings. Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
6. Air Pollution: Prolonged exposure to polluted air, including emissions from vehicles and industrial activities, contributes to lung cancer risk.
7. Occupational Chemicals: Substances such as arsenic, beryllium, nickel, cadmium and certain organic solvents can increase lung cancer risk.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes. During Lung Cancer Awareness month, you should familiarise yourself with the symptoms.

Often, symptoms do not appear until the disease has reached an advanced stage. Common early signs include:

• Persistent cough or a change in a chronic cough
• Shortness of breath and chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
• Coughing up blood

Your Entitlement to Compensation – What can you do?

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, it is vital to educate yourself on your rights to compensation.

It is important to emphasise that a history of smoking does not preclude an individual’s entitlement to damages. While smoking is a well-known risk factor, lung cancer can be caused or exacerbated by various environmental and occupational hazards.

If you think you may have occupational lung cancer, you should see your general practitioner or specialist to determine if you have any conditions or diseases that may be due to the nature of your employment.

It is important that you give an occupational history.

Given that the period between exposure and the onset of symptoms can be lengthy, early preventative measures and detection is highly recommended. If you believe you have signs of lung cancer or any other illness that stems from your working conditions, you can contact us for a No Fee, Obligation appointment.