Comments
Studies showing an association with asbestos exposure are inconsistent. Increased colorectal cancer has been reported in workers exposed to mineral oils in the operation of printing, typesetting, and textile processing machines. An increased risk for rectal cancer was also found for machinists exposed to mineral-based metalworking fluids. [Ward, p. 173-4] Colon cancer is increased in white-collar workers who have sedentary jobs. Some studies have shown a small excess risk for workers exposed to asbestos. [Adami, p. 202] Colon cancer was not associated with ionizing radiation exposure in studies of radiologists, underground miners, nuclear workers, or uranium processors. There was a "meaningful association" in Japanese A-bomb survivors. [Boice, p. 261]