Introduction/framework/objectives

Lung Cancer is fairly common and usually very lethal. Part of the cases seems to have an occupational etiology, so it will be relevant for professionals in the area to have some notions on the subject. The aim of this review was to summarize what was most recent and pertinent was published on this subject.

Methodology

This is a Bibliographic Review, initiated through a search carried out in January 2022, in the databases “CINALH plus with full text, Medline with full text, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Methodology Register, Nursing and Allied Health Collection: comprehensive, MedicLatina and RCAAP”.

Content

It is the deadliest cancer worldwide; it is the most frequent in males and the third most prevalent in females. Some researchers consider that it is possible that some hormonal issues can boost the number of cases in females. In this last ones, the most frequent is adenocarcinoma, less associated with tobacco.

It is believed that the occupational origin can explain almost a third of the cases. In this context, asbestos are the most relevant factor (responsible for 55 to 85% of cases with occupational etiology), according to some authors.

Discussion and Conclusions

In the literature, there is reasonable evidence that Lung Cancer is more likely to occur in situations where there is exposure to Radon, Asbestos/Silica, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Fiberglass, Diesel, Aluminum, Sulfur Dioxide and/or Particulate Matter. Thus, some of the professional sectors highlighted in this context will be Construction (General and Naval), Foundries and Mines.

Evidence points to some professional sectors such as Construction (Civil and Naval), Foundries and Mining are at greater risk. Despite this, there is little available literature that demonstrates the study of this phenomenon in national companies, so it would be relevant for some Occupational Health and Safety teams to dedicate some time to investigating these issues, enhancing global scientific knowledge on this topic and, in particular, epidemiologically characterizing the national panorama (incidence, most affected sectors/professions/tasks, as well as most used and/or effective collective and individual protection measures).

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