A shocking 40,538 cases of occupational cancer were officially acknowledged in the EU between 2013 and 2023. This alarming figure serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of workplace hazards on human health. In 2023 alone, 3,500 cases were recognized, a 191-case increase from the previous year.
Occupational cancer refers to cancers triggered by exposure to carcinogens in the workplace, often resulting from prolonged exposure. Notably, these cancers can manifest years after initial exposure, sometimes as long as four decades later.
The annual average of recognized cases from 2013 to 2019 was 3,909, with figures for 2020, 2021, and 2022 dipping below this average. This decrease could be attributed to the global pandemic's disruption of work environments and healthcare systems.
Eurostat's data on occupational diseases, published today, reveals these insights. For a more comprehensive understanding, refer to the detailed article on occupational cancers in Statistics Explained.
Lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure, accounted for a staggering 81.3% of all newly recognized occupational cancer cases from 2013 to 2023. These two types of cancer, with 16,499 and 16,469 cases respectively, were followed by bladder cancer, which had 2,696 cases.
This data underscores the critical need for stringent workplace safety measures and ongoing research into occupational health hazards.
Share this page to spread awareness and encourage discussion on this vital topic.
Note: The source dataset for this information is hswocccnr.
