Malignant mesothelioma: Epidemiology

Primary malignant neoplasms of the pleura and peritoneum originate from the mesothelial cells that line the respective cavities. The majority of these tumors are mesotheliomas. Mesothelioma is a relatively rare but very severe neoplasm, Exposure to asbestos (primarily on the workplace) is the main cause of mesothelioma. All types of asbestos fibers cause mesothelioma, but the potency of amphiboles is greater than that of chrysotile. The main determinant of mesothelioma risk is time since first asbestos exposure; duration and level of exposure play a minorrole. © Springer-Verlag London 2014

Laryngeal Cancer

none1siLaryngeal cancer affects mainly heavy smokers and excessive drinkers. The evidence fora causal association is strong for asbestos and strong inorganic acid mists. The relative risk of laryngeal cancer among workers exposed to asbestos is in the order of 1.5–2.0, with limited evidence of a gradient in risk according to duration or level of exposure. Several other agents have been suggested to increase the risk of laryngeal cancer, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, wood dust, diesel engine exhaust, and organic solvents, but the evidence is weak and inconsistent. An increased risk has been reported for occupational groups with exposure to known carcinogens (e.g., cooks, waiters, plumbers) and for other groups without clear exposure to known carcinogens (e.g., shoe workers). © Springer-Verlag London 2014.noneBoffetta, P.Boffetta, P