Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues in the Workplace;
Why in the News?
Data indicates that Central Europe and the wealthiest nations in Asia are approaching the cancer rates from workplace exposure to carcinogens seen in Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
Carcinogens are associated with Occupational Cancer:
- Asbestos: A major contributor to lung cancer and mesothelioma, responsible for the highest number of deaths is related to occupational exposure.
- Benzene: Associated with leukemia and bladder cancer; prevalent in chemical industries.
- Silica: Linked to lung cancer; significant exposure occurs in construction and mining.
- Diesel Engine Exhaust: Contributes to lung cancer and other respiratory issues.
- Secondhand Smoke: Increases risk of lung cancer among workers in smoke-exposed environments.
- Arsenic, Beryllium, Cadmium, Chromium: Various cancers are associated with these substances, including kidney and lung cancers.
Data Trends on Cancer from Workplace Exposure:
- Western Europe and Australasia historically had the highest rates of death from cancers attributed to workplace carcinogens. These regions have maintained the highest mortality rates for over three decades.
- Southeast Asia countries like Singapore, Japan, Brunei, and South Korea have seen their cancer death rates from occupational exposure triple since 1990. This increase correlates with their growing manufacturing sectors.
- In Central Europe and East Asia, death rates have doubled in Central Europe and increased by 2.5 times in East Asia since 1990. The rise is attributed to a large manufacturing economy that often lacks stringent safety regulations.
International guidelines:
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Regulations and Enforcement: Implement and enforce stricter occupational health and safety regulations, including banning or limiting the use of known carcinogens, such as asbestos and benzene, and promoting safer alternatives in industries.
- Enhance Awareness and Training: Develop comprehensive training programs for workers and employers on the risks of carcinogens, safe handling practices, and the importance of regular health monitoring to prevent occupational cancers.
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