Working with concrete can be a dangerous job, as it can lead to serious and even life-threatening illnesses. Inhaling concrete dust, which usually contains silica, can cause silicosis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and lung cancer. The increased risk of lip cancer among concrete workers could be due to carcinogenic components of cement or concrete dust, but there are other possible causes. Working outdoors is associated with an increased risk of lip cancer, as well as lower social class and smoking habits.
Additionally, concrete workers may be exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light and asbestos, both of which can increase the risk of cancer. The main culprit behind the health risks associated with concrete is silica dust. This dust hangs in the air on construction sites and can cause scarring of the lungs, leading to silicosis. It is also corrosive to the eyes and skin and can cause skin sensitization (dermatitis). Furthermore, when wet concrete or mortar is trapped against the skin, it can cause first, second, or third degree burns or skin ulcers. This study is the first cohort study of cancer incidence in concrete workers in the construction industry.
It was found that older concrete workers had a higher risk of stomach cancer, possibly due to changes in eating habits. Additionally, there were 18 cases of pleural mesothelioma among concrete workers compared to the expected 10.9, indicating that they may have been exposed to asbestos. Smoking was more common among concrete workers than in the general population in 1981 (50% vs 35%). This could explain why there is an increased risk of lip cancer among concrete workers. It is important for those working with concrete to take all necessary safety precautions to protect their health. This includes wearing protective clothing and masks when working with cement and silica dust.
Additionally, employers should provide adequate ventilation on construction sites to reduce exposure to these hazardous materials.
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