Occupational skin cancer leaving unwelcome marks on workers

Australians know the dangers of skin cancers all too well. It accounts for around 80% of new cancers diagnosed each year. Unsurprisingly, skin cancers are a significant contributor to occupational diseases, with outdoor Aussie workers increasingly at risk.

Skin cancers

Skin cancer occurs when there is irregular growth on the skin, and the majority is caused by sun exposure.

The three main types of skin cancer are:

• Basal cell carcinoma
  Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and develops from basal cells found in the deepest part of the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). 
  
  
• Squamous cell
  Squamous cell is the second most common type of skin cancer and develops in the squamous cells which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin.
  
  
• Melanoma
  Melanoma is the least common type of skin cancer; however, it is considered to be the most serious as it can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Melanoma grows from cells called melanocytes, the cells that give your skin pigment.

Common causes of skin cancers

Sun exposure

Sun exposure is a significant risk factor for skin cancer due to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation it emits. The International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC) classified UV radiation as a Group 1 carcinogen in 1992.

Outdoor workers face a heightened risk, receiving up to ten times the UV radiation dosage compared to indoor workers. Occupations such as farming, painting, plumbing, driving and horticulture are among those most exposed to UV radiation. 

Occupational artificial ultraviolet radiation

Aside from natural sources, workers can be exposed to artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation, such as applications used in dental medicine and electric arc welders.

The IARC classified welding-related ultraviolet radiation as carcinogenic to humans in 2017 based on sufficient evidence that exposure can cause ocular melanoma.

To mitigate this risk, welders should use respiratory protection, full-face welding helmets, UV-filtered lenses and appropriate protective clothing.

Chemical exposures

Certain chemicals including mineral oils, arsenic, shale oils and x-ray and Gamma radiation have been classified by the IARC as a carcinogen sufficient to cause malignant non-melanomas.