Comments
In western countries, cancer of the larynx is for the most part attributable to smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. Possible occupational risks include exposure to nickel, asbestos, and ionizing radiation. [Adami, p. 271] Studies of cohorts from past decades have found strong associations between laryngeal cancer and occupational exposures to mustard gas manufacturing, nickel refining, and metalworking with mineral-based oils. [Ward, p. 296] Risk factors for laryngeal cancer include smoking, drinking alcohol, and asbestos exposure. This cancer is also associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure from metalworking fluids, aluminum reduction plants, and burning coal for cooking fuel indoors. [LaDou, p. 358] There is strong evidence that the following are occupational carcinogens: isopropanol manufacture, strong acid process; inorganic acid mists containing sulfuric acid; and mustard gas. There is suggestive evidence that exposure to asbestos and the rubber industry are associated with an increased risk of work-related laryngeal cancer. [Siemiatycki, p. 334] Established occupational causes of laryngeal cancer are "acid mists, strong inorganic" and asbestos. [IARC 2012]