The European Status Quo in legal recognition and patient-care services of occupational skin cancer

Occupational health and safety among farmers: a comprehensive study in Central Anatolia, Turkey

BACKGROUND

The agricultural sector is vital for food production, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. However, it also poses significant occupational health and safety challenges due to factors such as heavy machinery usage, exposure to chemicals, and challenging environmental conditions.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study involved 366 farmers affiliated with the Yozgat Chamber of Agriculture in Turkey. Data on demographic characteristics, occupational factors, and work accidents were collected with interview technique between May and August 2023. While descriptive data were expressed as categories with numbers and percentages, chi-square analysis was used to compare the obtained answers with the status of having or not having a work accident. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of independent variables on the probability of having a work accident.

RESULTS

The study revealed that 33.0% of farmers experienced work accidents in the last year. Most accidents occurred during work shifts (28.8%) and in the fall season (34.8%). Factors contributing to accidents included lack of personal protective equipment (51.5%) and transportation-related issues (36.4%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that working more than 8 h daily, working 5 days or more per week, and using bus/minibus transportation significantly increased the likelihood of experiencing work accidents.

CONCLUSION

Findings underscore the importance of implementing effective occupational health and safety measures, including proper training, provision of personal protective equipment, and improving transportation safety. Addressing these issues can enhance the well-being of agricultural workers and contribute to a safer working environment in the sector.

Risk Factors and Innovations in Risk Assessment for Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer globally and is preventable. Various risk factors contribute to different types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. These risk factors encompass both extrinsic, such as UV exposure and behavioral components, and intrinsic factors, especially involving genetic predisposition. However, the specific risk factors vary among the skin cancer types, highlighting the importance of precise knowledge to facilitate appropriate early diagnosis and treatment for at-risk individuals. Better understanding of the individual risk factors has led to the development of risk scores, allowing the identification of individuals at particularly high risk. These advances contribute to improved prevention strategies, emphasizing the commitment to mitigating the impact of skin cancer.

Advancing Cancer Research: Current Knowledge on Cutaneous Neoplasia

Skin cancers require a multidisciplinary approach. The updated guidelines introduce new insights into the management of these diseases. Melanoma (MM), the third most common skin cancer, a malignant melanocytic tumor, which is classified into four major histological subtypes, continues to have the potential to be a lethal disease. The mortality-incidence ratio is higher in Eastern European countries compared to Western European countries, which shows the need for better prevention and early detection in Eastern European countries. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) remain the top two skin cancers, and their incidence continues to grow. The gold standard in establishing the diagnosis and establishing the histopathological subtype in BCC and SCC is a skin biopsy. Sebaceous carcinoma (SeC) is an uncommon and potentially aggressive cutaneous malignancy showing sebaceous differentiation. It accounts for 0.7% of skin cancers and 3-6.7% of cancer-related deaths. Due to the rapid extension to the regional lymph nodes, SeC requires early treatment. The main treatment for sebaceous carcinoma is surgical treatment, including Mohs micrographic surgery, which has the advantage of complete margin evaluation and low recurrence rates. Primary cutaneous lymphomas (PCLs) are a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative diseases, with no evidence of extracutaneous determination at the moment of the diagnosis. PCLs have usually a very different evolution, prognosis, and treatment compared to the lymphomas that may secondarily involve the skin. The aim of our review is to summarize the important changes in the approach to treating melanoma, non-melanoma skin, cutaneous T and B cell lymphomas, and other types of skin cancers. For all skin cancers, optimal patient management requires a multidisciplinary approach including dermatology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

Classification of skin cancer stages using a AHP fuzzy technique within the context of big data healthcare

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Skin conditions in humans can be challenging to diagnose. Skin cancer manifests itself without warning. In the future, these illnesses, which have been an issue for many, will be identified and treated. With the rapid expansion of big data healthcare framework summarization and precise prediction in early stage skin cancer diagnosis, the fuzzy AHP technique produces the best results in both of these fields. Big data is a potent technology that enhances the standard of research and generates better results more rapidly. This essay gives a way to group the stages of skin cancer treatment based on this information. The combination of support vector machine multi-class classification and fuzzy selector with radial basis function-based binary migration classification of virtual machines is put through a number of experiments. The connections have been categorized.

ANALYSIS METHOD

These examinations have determined whether the tumors are malignant or benign and how malignant they are. The images of spots on the skin acquired from laboratory images make up the data set used for processing. We have talked about how to handle and process large datasets in the area of classification using MATLAB, like skin spot images.

FINDINGS

Our technique outperforms competing approaches by maintaining stability even as the size of the data set grows rapidly and with little error. In comparison to other methods, the suggested approach meets the accuracy criterion for correct classifications with a score of 90.86%. As a result, the proposed solution is viewed as a potentially useful tool for identifying mass stages and categorizing skin cancer severity.

Barriers and Facilitators in the Creation of a Surveillance System for Solar Radiation-Induced Skin Cancers

Outdoor workers are exposed to many hazards, including solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Identifying, reporting, analyzing and tracking the exposures or health outcomes of outdoor workers have not generally been formally considered. This article aims to summarize the best practices/strategies for creating an occupational sun exposure or skin cancer surveillance system for outdoor workers and to understand the key barriers and facilitators to the development of such a system. For the design of a successful occupational safety and health (OSH) surveillance system five occupational surveillance strategies are summarized: exposure registry, disease registry, disease screening/medical surveillance, sentinel event surveillance, and disease surveillance via data linkage. Ten key considerations are identified, including identifying a clear goal, a defined target population and stakeholder involvement, five critical barriers are highlighted including underreporting and funding, and five vital facilitators are recognized including communication/collaboration and a simple reporting process.

Risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma due to occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the most significant occupational carcinogenic exposure in terms of the number of workers exposed (i.e., outdoor workers). Consequently, solar UVR-induced skin cancers are among the most common forms of occupational malignancies that are potentially expected globally. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021295221) and aims to assess the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) associated to occupational solar UVR exposure. Systematic searches will be performed in three electronic literature databases (PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Scopus). Further references will be retrieved by a manual search (e.g., in grey literature databases, internet search engines, and organizational websites). We will include cohort studies and case-control studies. Risk of Bias assessment will be conducted separately for case-control and cohort studies. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) will be used for the certainty of assessment. In case quantitative pooling is not feasible, a narrative synthesis of results will be performed.

Photoprotection in occupational dermatology

Skin cancer has become a substantial matter of public health and in the workplace, accounting for a significant share of all reported occupational diseases. The most important external factor in the development of skin cancer is exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation. Outdoor workers have already been identified as a high-risk category. The need for interventions to improve the sun protection behavior of outdoor workers has recently been understood. Outdoor workers' risk perceptions and attitudes toward sun protection methods are likely to influence practical sun protection behavior at work, and despite the fact that many workers have expressed interest in improving their sun protection behavior, outdoor workers' unique needs are still neglected. Occupational dermatology is predicted to become more concerned with photoprotection in the decades ahead. Preventive action against the rapidly increasing number skin cancer cases is in great demand around the globe. In terms of preventive measures, the full range of available options should be used as needed to address the current difficulties in a goal-oriented way. This will almost certainly only be achievable if preventative efforts on a collective and individual level are successfully paired with support from policymakers to inspire long-term change.

The sociological basis of the skin cancer epidemic

Given the precipitous rise in its incidence in recent decades, skin cancer has been recognized as a growing epidemic. We explore the sociological underpinnings of this epidemic, including: (1) aging of the demographic; (2) human ecologic factors (residing in areas with high ambient ultraviolet levels and a depleted ozone layer); (3) large-scale European migration to more equatorial latitudes; (4) social structures that for centuries minimized miscegenation and maximized segregation; (5) gender-based differences in sunbathing, tanning, sunscreen use, and clothing choice; (6) occupational ultraviolet exposure; (7) the complex interplay of socioeconomic status, race, and urbanization on skin cancer incidence and mortality; (8) the effects of war on skin cancer incidence; (9) cultural shifts in clothing, travel, outdoor sports, recreation, and attitudes towards being tan; and (10) the indirect effects of religion. We show that without these sociological factors, the most common type of cancer would not be nearly as common.

Sun protection and occupation: Current developments and perspectives for prevention of occupational skin cancer

A substantial proportion of all reported occupational illnesses are constituted by skin cancer, making this disease a serious public health issue. Solar ultra-violet radiation (UVR) exposure is the most significant external factor in the development of skin cancer, for which the broad occupational category of outdoor workers has already been identified as high-risk group. Sun protection by deploying adequate technical, organizational, and person-related measures has to be understood as a functional aspect of workplace safety. To prevent skin cancers brought on by-typically cumulative-solar UVR exposure, outdoor workers must considerably lower their occupationally acquired solar UVR doses. Estimating cumulative sun exposure in outdoor workers requires consideration of the level of solar UVR exposure, the tasks to be done in the sun, and the employees' solar UVR preventive measures. Recent studies have highlighted the necessity for measures to enhance outdoor workers' sun protection behavior. In the coming decades, occupational dermatology is expected to pay increasing attention to sun protection at work. Also, the field of dermato-oncology will likely be concerned with sky-rocketing incidences of occupational skin cancers. The complete range of available alternatives should be utilized in terms of preventive actions, which seems pivotal to handle the present and future challenges in a purposeful manner. This will almost definitely only be possible if politicians' support is effectively combined with communal and individual preventive actions in order to spur long-term transformation.

Protocol for a Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Interventions to Reduce Exposure to Occupational Solar UltraViolet Radiation (UVR) Among Outdoor Workers

Background: Solar UltraViolet Radiation (UVR) is considered the most relevant occupational carcinogenic exposure in terms of the number of workers exposed (i.e., outdoor workers) and UVR-induced skin cancers are among the most frequent types of occupational cancers worldwide. This review aims to collect and evaluate all the available preventive interventions conducted on outdoor workers to reduce their solar UVR related risk, with the final purpose of reducing the burden of occupational skin cancers for outdoor workers.

Methods: We will search the following databases for peer-reviewed original research published: MEDLINE (through PubMed), Scopus, and EMBASE. We will include only interventional studies, both randomized and non-randomized, with an adequate comparison group, therefore excluding cross-sectional studies, as well as case-reports/series, reviews, and letters/comments. The systematic review will adhere to the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines for reporting systematic reviews. After the literature search, studies to be included will be independently reviewed by two Authors, first based on title and abstract, then based on the full text, according to the inclusion criteria. Conflicts will be solved by a third Author. Two authors will independently extract the required data from included studies and perform quality assessment according to the relevant domain for Risk of Bias assessment proposed by the Cochrane collaboration group. In case of sufficient homogeneity of interventions and outcomes evaluated, results from subgroups of studies will be pooled together in a meta-analysis.

Discussion: Following the principles for the evaluation of interventions for cancer prevention established by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, this systematic review will investigate the effectiveness of the interventions, and consequently it will provide reliable indications for the actual reduction of skin cancer incidence in outdoor workers.

New methods for assessing secondary performance attributes of sunscreens suitable for professional outdoor work

BACKGROUND

Outdoor workers (OW) are highly exposed to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and thus at increased risk for developing skin cancer. An essential part of an overall strategy to reduce workplace UVR-exposure to OW's skin is the usage of sunscreens. However, compliance with regular sunscreen usage seems to be low, as products are usually designed for recreational sun exposure and thus do not meet the requirements of physically active OW. To date, no standardized test procedures assess the suitability of sunscreens for professional use. The aim of this pilot study was to develop standardized methods of testing secondary performance attributes (PA) to represent real-life working conditions of outdoor work.

METHODS

Ten sunscreen products, carefully selected after a detailed market survey of all relevant producers available on the German market, were evaluated regarding their suitability for professional outdoor work on 24 healthy volunteers in a newly designed test procedure. In addition to three standardized efficacy characteristics, i.e., sun protection factor, water-resistance, and UVA protection, we evaluated each PA involving parameters typically associated with outdoor workplaces.

RESULTS

We developed standardized methods for objectifying the suitability of sunscreen products for professional outdoor work. The test procedures used are well feasible and appropriate for testing the PA because they represent practical working conditions in detail - although the degree of discriminability of single test methods varied. The claimed sun protection factor (SPF) of the products was confirmed; bio-stability of the SPF after physical activity was achieved in most cases. While most products hardly irritate the eyes and are quickly absorbed, the evaluation of the subjective skin feeling and non-slip grip is inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS

In this pilot study, for the first time secondary PA are defined and examined. Although further objectification of the PA assessment as well as the establishment of minimum standards should be sought, the new methods could already complement the so far mandatory labels and in this way provide a significant impetus for the current scientific and political focus on the improvement of occupational health in highly UVR-exposed OW.

Occupation and cutaneous melanoma: a 45-year historical cohort study of 14·9 million people in five Nordic countries

BACKGROUND

The age-adjusted incidence of cutaneous melanoma (CM) in the Nordic countries has increased during the last 60 years. Few prospective population-based studies have estimated the occupational variation in CM risk over time.

OBJECTIVES

To determine occupational variation in CM risk.

METHODS

A historical prospective cohort study with a 45-year follow-up from 1961 to 2005 (Nordic Occupational Cancer Study, NOCCA) based on record linkages between census and cancer registry data for Nordic residents aged 30-64 years in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. National occupational codes were converted to 53 occupational categories, and stratified into indoor, outdoor and mixed work, and into socioeconomic status. The standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were estimated as observed number of CM cases divided by the expected number calculated from stratum-specific person-years and national CM incidence rates.

RESULTS

During a follow-up of 385 million person-years, 83 898 incident cases of CM were identified. In all countries combined, men with outdoor work had a low SIR of 0·79 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0·77-0·81] and men with indoor work had a high SIR of 1·09 (95% CI 1·07-1·11). Differences in women pointed in the same direction. High socioeconomic status was associated with an excess risk: SIR 1·34 (95% CI 1·28-1·40) in men and SIR 1·31 (95% CI 1·26-1·36) in women. Technical, transport, military and public safety workers with potential skin exposure to carcinogens had excess risks.

CONCLUSIONS

Occupational variation in CM risk may be partly explained by host, socioeconomic and skin exposure factors. Differences in CM risk across socioeconomic groups attenuated slightly over time.

Improved protection of outdoor workers from solar ultraviolet radiation: position statement

The vast majority of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is attributable to excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Outdoor workers are exposed to an UVR dose at least 2 to 3 times higher than indoor workers and often to daily UVR doses 5 times above internationally recommended limits. The risk of UVR workplace exposure is vastly neglected, and the evident future challenges presented in this statement are contrasted with the current situation regarding legal recognition, patient care and compensation. While prevention is crucial to reduce cancer risks for outdoor workers, it is as much of relevance to better protect them through legally binding rules and regulations. Specific actions are outlined in five recommendations based on a Call to Action (table 1). The role of health professionals, including dermatologists, in this context is crucial.

The evolving field of Dermato-oncology and the role of dermatologists: Position Paper of the EADO, EADV and Task Forces, EDF, IDS, EBDV-UEMS and EORTC Cutaneous Lymphoma Task Force

BACKGROUND

The incidence of skin cancers has been increasing steadily over the last decades. Although there have been significant breakthroughs in the management of skin cancers with the introduction of novel diagnostic tools and innovative therapies, skin cancer mortality, morbidity and costs heavily burden the society.

OBJECTIVE

Members of the European Association of Dermato-Oncology, European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, International Dermoscopy Society, European Dermatology Forum, European Board of Dermatovenereology of the European Union of Medical Specialists and EORTC Cutaneous Lymphoma Task Force have joined this effort to emphasize the fundamental role that the specialist in Dermatology-Venereology has in the diagnosis and management of different types of skin cancer. We review the role of dermatologists in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancers and cutaneous lymphomas, and discuss approaches to optimize their involvement in effectively addressing the current needs and priorities of dermato-oncology.

DISCUSSION

Dermatologists play a crucial role in virtually all aspects of skin cancer management including the implementation of primary and secondary prevention, the formation of standardized pathways of care for patients, the establishment of specialized skin cancer treatment centres, the coordination of an efficient multidisciplinary team and the setting up of specific follow-up plans for patients.

CONCLUSION

Skin cancers represent an important health issue for modern societies. The role of dermatologists is central to improving patient care and outcomes. In view of the emerging diagnostic methods and treatments for early and advanced skin cancer, and considering the increasingly diverse skills, knowledge and expertise needed for managing this heterogeneous group of diseases, dermato-oncology should be considered as a specific subspecialty of Dermatology-Venereology.

Global evidence on occupational sun exposure and keratinocyte cancers: a systematic review

Individual studies have suggested that the association between occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and the development of keratinocyte cancers (KCs) may only be valid in populations of European ancestry living in certain geographical regions. Comparative global data are scarce and so this review aimed to summarize current evidence on the association between occupational exposure to solar UVR and the development of KCs, with a specific focus on geographical location and skin colour. Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched for potentially relevant records. Extracted data were summarized by study, country and region. We included one prospective cohort study and 18 case-control studies (n = 15 233) from 12 countries in regions where the majority of the population is white skinned (Americas, Europe and Oceania). Eighteen of the 19 studies reported effect estimates suggesting an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and/or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) among outdoor workers. Only 11 studies found a significantly increased risk and many had imprecise estimates. There was a significantly increased risk of BCC and SCC in individual studies in North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Western Europe and Southern Europe, but not across regions or countries. Overall, 95% of studies reported higher risks among outdoor workers, although the increases in risk were statistically significant in just over half of the studies. Well-designed and sufficiently powered occupational case-control and cohort studies with adequate adjustment for confounding factors and other risk factors are required to provide more accurate risk estimates for occupational KC.

Is Occupational Skin Cancer More Aggressive than Sporadic Skin Cancer?

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) represents the most frequently diagnosed cancer in humans. Occupational solar UV radiation exposure is associated with a higher-risk of developing NMSC, but still Romania does not acknowledge this affliction as an occupational disease. The study aims to determine if occupationally-induced NMSC is associated with more aggressive clinical and histopathological features compared to sporadic NMSC. Material and methods: A retrospective, analytical, comparative study was conducted during 2017-2019 in a University Department of Dermato-venereology in Bucharest, Romania, with focus on patients presenting with NMSC who underwent surgical excision of lesions followed by histopathological examination, classified as outdoor or indoor workers. High-risk clinical and histopathological characteristics were analysed and correlated with outdoor UV exposure. Outcomes: The study included 51 consecutive patients diagnosed with NMSC, of which 25 outdoor workers (OW) and 26 controls as indoor workers with no occupational UV exposure background. OW presented with 21 BCC and four SCC, while controls with 22 BCC and four SCC. Males were predominant in both groups and most patients came from urban environment. The mean age value was lower for the OW group compared to controls. OW had a 4.66 times higher risk of developing NMSC with aggressive location and size χ² (1, N=51) = 6.246, p=0.013, OR=4.66 (95% CI: 1.34, 16.23) and a 24-fold risk of developing NMSC with clinically poorly defined margins χ² (1, N=51) = 21.697, p<0.001, OR=24.44 (95% CI: 5.38,110.92). The risk of developing a high-risk histopathological subtype was 15 times greater for OW χ² (1, N=51) = 13.814, p<0.001, OR=15.27 (95% CI: 2.94,79.08). Moderate to severe desmoplastic reaction was 8.57 more frequent in controls χ² (1, N=51) = 12.244, p=0.001, OR=8.57 (95% CI: 2.42, 30.30). Grades 2 and 3 of actinic elastosis were significantly associated with outdoor work (χ² (1, N=51) = 33.382, p<0.001, OR=131.25 (95% CI: 13.60, 1266.37). The presence of ulceration and pigment association of tumors on the histopathological report were not significantly associated with outdoor working. Conclusion: 1. Occupational NMSC in Romania is associated with high-risk clinical features; 2. Poorly defined borders is a significant clinical high-risk factor associated with occupational UV exposure in NMSC; 3. High-risk histopathological subtypes are more frequently encountered in outdoor workers diagnosed with NMSC compared to indoor workers with no occupational UV exposure background; 4. Occupational NMSC is associated with significantly higher grades of desmoplastic reaction and of actinic elastosis compared to indoor workers.

Sun protection habits and behaviors of a group of outdoor workers and students from the agricultural and construction sectors in north-Italy

Background:

Despite the relevant frequency of ultraviolet induced adverse health effects in workers, solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is an occupational risk not adequately minimized in Italy.

Objective:

To assess the characteristics and prevalence of sun exposure habits and behaviors in a group of students and outdoor workers (OW) from the agricultural and construction sectors of a north-Italian region.

Methods:

Based on a previously developed standardized questionnaire, we collected full information on individual sun exposure habits at work and during leisure activities.

Results:

In 2018, 380 high school students and OW from the agricultural and construction sectors participated in a sun-safety campaign. More than a third (39.0%) of OW reported never using sunglasses, 52.8% never applied sunscreens at work, and a quarter never wear a UV protective hat. Considering leisure-time, students reported more frequent sunburns compared to OW: 25.0% vs. 13.8%; half (51.6%) of students and a third (36.4%) of OW reported never wearing a UV protective hat. A third (30.1%) of students and 37.2% of OW never or only seldom applied sunscreens on holidays.

Discussion:

The majority of OW in our study reported poor protective solar exposure habits. Young students of the construction and agricultural sectors indicated even worse sun-protective behaviors, both during apprenticeship and leisure activities. Our study highlights the low health literacy related to solar UVR in OW and apprentices. Further educational initiatives are required in Italy to improve the adoption of protective behaviors during outdoor activities.

Personal solar ultraviolet radiation dosimetry in an occupational setting across Europe

BACKGROUND

Work-related solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is an important factor in the pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). The World Health Organization, through the International Agency for Research on Cancer, has classified solar UVR as a group 1 carcinogen since 2012. The main problems encountered so far in the study of occupationally induced skin cancer include the lack of accurate occupational UVR dosimetry as well as insufficient distinction between occupational and leisure UVR exposure and underreporting of NMSC.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to collect long-term individual UVR measurements in outdoor workers across European countries.

METHODS

A prospective study was initiated through the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Healthy Skin@Work Campaign, measuring UVR exposure doses at occupational settings of masons from five European countries. Measurements were performed for several consecutive months using the GENESIS-UV measurement system.

RESULTS

The results identified alarming UVR exposure data. Average daily UVR doses ranged 148.40-680.48 J/m² in Romania, 342.4-640.8 J/m² in Italy, 165.5-466.2 J/m² in Croatia, 41.8-473.8 J/m² in Denmark and 88.15-400.22 J/m² in Germany. Results showed an expected latitude dependence with increasing UVR yearly dosage from the north to the south of Europe.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that outdoor workers from EU countries included in this study are exposed to high levels of occupational solar UVR, vastly exceeding the occupational exposure limits for solar UVR exposure, considered to be 1-1.33 SED/day in the period from May to September. This finding may serve as an evidence-based recommendation to authorities on implementing occupational skin cancer prevention strategies.

Exposure to solar UV radiation in outdoor construction workers using personal dosimetry

Occupational exposure to solar UV radiation (SUVR), a Group 1 carcinogen according to the IARC classification is at high exposure levels in outdoor construction workers, usually above the suggested occupational limits. Furthermore, there are no regulations related to this exposure in the EU, except for the artificial UVR. Also, the use of the ICNIRP exposure guideline in an outdoor setting poses problems of adequate dose assessment. In this context, the main purpose of the study was to perform direct measurements of the SUVR dose in outdoor workers from the construction sector, using individual SUVR dosimeters (GENESIS-UV system), for a period of 7 months, from April to October, in a prospective, observational study in two groups of 10 outdoor workers in Romania, located at two different geographic sites. In term of cumulative standard erythema dose (SED), our study population of outdoor construction workers received high levels of solar UV radiation, ranging from 165 SED to 453 SED during 7 months of occupational activity, from April to October. Our results, ranging from 1.28 SED (standard erythema dose) per day to 6.4 SED per day pose an alarm signal to the national and European health authorities to take preventive action for outdoor workers, as the ICNIRP suggested limit value of 1.33 SED for mean daily erythemal UV exposure is vastly exceeded. We suggest that personal dosimetry for SUVR, from simple devices to complex systems as GENESIS-UV should be regularly and mandatory used in outdoor workers, similarly to the usage of personal dosimetry in occupational exposure to ionizing radiations, which could be included in European and national legislation to reduce both, the level of exposure and the detrimental effects on outdoor workers' health.

Outdoor workers' perceptions of skin cancer risk and attitudes to sun-protective measures: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

Since January 2015, squamous cell carcinoma or multiple actinic keratosis of the skin caused by natural ultraviolet irradiation (UVR) is recognized as occupational disease in Germany. Interventions which improve the sun protection behavior of outdoor workers are urgently needed. When developing preventive interventions, the attitudes of target groups need to be taken into consideration. Therefore, outdoor workers' perceptions and attitudes were investigated.

METHODS

Seven guided, problem-centered qualitative interviews with healthy male outdoor workers were conducted. A qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

We found an underestimation of the perceived skin cancer risk in the seven outdoor workers and heterogeneous attitudes toward the usage of sun-protective measures. Participants stated that the feasibility of technical sun-protective measures depends on the size of the working area. While using a headgear seemed common, none of the participants stated using additional neck protection. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long trousers were considered problematic. The interviews revealed important requirements for sun-protective clothes, especially in terms of different materials. Although the usage of sunscreen was common, our interviewees seemed to apply it wrongly.

CONCLUSION

Risk perceptions of outdoor workers and their attitudes toward sun protection measures may influence the factual UV protection behavior in the workplace. Structures to facilitate the implementation of technical and organizational sun-protective measures seem to be necessary. Educational interventions and clear instructions which are tailored to the individual needs and attitudes of outdoor workers are required to improve the UV protection behavior and to avoid common mistakes.

Occupational Exposure to Solar UV Radiation of a Group of Fishermen Working in the Italian North Adriatic Sea

Occupational solar radiation exposure is a relevant heath risk in the fishing sector. Our aim was to provide a detailed evaluation of individual UV exposure in three different fishing activities in Italy, with personal UV dosimeters and a simple formula to calculate the fraction of ambient erythemal UV dose received by the workers. The potential individual UV exposure of the fishermen was between 65 and 542 Joules/m². The percentages of the ambient exposure were estimated between 2.5% and 65.3%. Workers’ UV exposure was mainly influenced by the characteristics of the work activity, the postures adopted, and the type of boats. Overall, our data showed that 43% of the daily measurements could result largely above the occupational limits of 1–1.3 standard erythemal dose (i.e., 100 Joules/m²) per day, in case of exposure of uncovered skin areas. Measurements of individual UV exposure are important not only to assess the risk but also to increase workers’ perception and stimulate the adoption of preventive measures to reduce solar UV risk. Furthermore, the simple method proposed, linking ambient erythemal UV dose to the workers’ exposure, can be a promising tool for a reliable assessment of the UV risk, as time series of environmental UV dose are widely available.

Skin cancer in outdoor workers exposed to solar radiation: a largely underreported occupational disease in Italy

Background

Solar UV radiation (sUVR) is one of the main carcinogen exposures in occupational settings, and UV‐induced skin cancers are the most frequent tumours in fair‐skinned individuals worldwide.

Objectives

According to this premise, we should expect a high number of occupational skin cancers reported to the national workers’ compensation authorities each year, also considering that the incidence of skin cancers has been constantly increased in recent years

Methods

We examined the data on reported non‐melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) and actinic keratoses (AK) to the Italian National Workers Compensation Authority (INAIL) from 2012 to 2017, and we compared the number of reported skin cancers for outdoor workers with the expected numbers, obtained from currently available NMSC incidence rates for the Italian population applied to the occupational sUVR‐exposed workers estimated with the CAREX methodology in Italy in 2005.

Results

The cases of NMSC reported each year to INAIL in Italy are 34 per year on average, while for AK the mean number of reported cases is of only 15/year. We estimated a number of expected NMSC cases in Italy for solar UV‐exposed workers ranging between 432 and 983, representing a proportion between reported vs. expected skin cancers of only 3.5–6.2%.

Conclusions

Our study clearly shows that occupational skin cancers in Italy are largely underreported, and, accordingly, urgent initiatives should be taken to raise appropriate awareness to the problem of occupational sUVR‐induced skin cancers, so that adequate preventive measures can be implemented rapidly.

Sunlight radiation as a villain and hero: 60 years of illuminating research

In the 60 years since the inaugural edition of the International Journal of Radiation Biology, much of our understanding of the biological effects of solar radiation has changed. Earlier in the century, sunlight played a 'hero's' role in reducing disabling rickets, while today debate still continues on the amount of sun required before exposure reveals the 'villainous' side of solar radiation. Although knowledge of the ultra violet (UV) component of sunlight as a carcinogen has become widespread, skin cancer rates are still rising yearly. Twentieth century attitudes have seen an about-face in the field of dermatological sun protection, with sunscreens changing from recipes designed to promote a 'healthy tan' to formulations proven to block both ultraviolet B (UVB) and more recently, ultraviolet A (UVA), to minimize premature sun-aging and skin cancer risk. In the early 1960s, DNA was first found to exist within mitochondria, while recently the connections between mitochondrial changes and UV radiation exposure have been expanded. Sixty years ago, understanding of the endocrine systems of mammals was enjoying its infancy. Early discoveries that light, particularly natural light, could have profound effects on functions such as sleep patterns and hormonal balance were made, while today more advanced knowledge has led to lighting improvements having pronounced effects on human wellbeing. Photosensitization 60 years ago was a health concern for both humans and their domestic animals, while today chemically engineered photosensitizing drugs can be administered along with highly directed light to pinpoint delivery targets for drug action. Life on earth is inextricably bound up with solar radiation. This article attempts to outline many of the ways in which our opinions about solar radiation have changed since the journal's inception.

'Try to make good hay in the shade - it won't work!' A qualitative interview study on the perspectives of Bavarian farmers regarding primary prevention of skin cancer

BACKGROUND

Extensive exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the main risk factor for keratinocyte carcinoma (KC), making outdoor workers, including farmers, a high-risk population for KC. The use of sun protection is crucial for KC prevention but is not typically implemented by outdoor workers during their daily tasks.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the attitudes of Bavarian farmers regarding sun-protective measures in their daily work and to understand perceived barriers and unmet needs.

METHODS

Farmers were recruited through the Bavarian Farmers Association in Bavaria, Southern Germany. Qualitative semi structured interviews were conducted with participants between December 2017 and March 2018. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty farmers (11 women, nine men; nine aged 18-30 years, 11 aged > 60 years) participated. Knowledge and awareness of UVR exposure and KC, perceived individual barriers to implementing sun-protective measures, individual experiences and farm life-specific circumstances emerged as key areas influencing the perspectives of farmers regarding the primary prevention of KC. Female farmers tended to take a more positive stance on sun protection, whereas male farmers showed a lower overall interest.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge and awareness of KC and UVR exposure is very limited in Bavarian farmers with serious perceived barriers due to the demands of daily agricultural work. Further qualitative studies are needed to identify intervention options that can increase skin cancer awareness and that can successfully overcome real barriers to implementing sun protection.

Occupational Lung Diseases: Underreported Diagnosis in Radiological Practice

Underreporting of occupational lung diseases is a widespread problem in clinical practice. In Europe there is not a common regulation even for the recognition of occupational cancers. Furthermore epidemiologic data on occupational interstitial lung diseases, in general, is limited by no standardized diagnostic criteria, varied physician awareness and training, limitations inherent to the various data sources, and the long latency period. Therefore, to optimize the management of the patient with occupational pathology, the collaboration and skills of the multidisciplinary at the service of the patient, play a fundamental role. In particular, radiologists should give substance to a clinical suspicion on an anamnestic basis and at the same time should recognize patterns of illness that can lead to the emergence of stories of misunderstood exposures. This article aims to provide an overview of the main occupational lung diseases with attention to diagnostic possibilities of the different imaging techniques. The issue of the radiological error is investigated, providing tools to minimize it in the daily practice.

Solar Radiation Exposure and Outdoor Work: An Underestimated Occupational Risk

A considerably high number of outdoor workers worldwide are constantly exposed for the majority of their working life to solar radiation (SR); this exposure is known to induce various adverse health effects, mainly related to its ultraviolet (UV) component. The skin and the eye are the principal target organs for both acute and long-term exposure. Actinic keratosis, non-melanoma skin cancers, and malignant melanoma are the main long-term adverse skin effects, whereas in the eye pterygium, cataracts, and according to an increasing body of evidence, macular degeneration may be induced. Despite this, SR exposure risk is currently undervalued, if not neglected, as an occupational risk factor for outdoor workers. SR exposure is influenced by various environmental and individual factors, and occupation is one of the most relevant. For a better understanding of this risk and for the development of more effective prevention strategies, one of the main problems is the lack of available and adequate methods to estimate SR worker exposure, especially long-term exposure. The main aims of this review were to provide a comprehensive overview of SR exposure risk of outdoor workers, including the UV exposure levels and the main methods recently proposed for short-term and cumulative exposure, and to provide an update of knowledge on the main adverse eye and skin effects. Finally, we also outline here preventive interventions to reduce occupational risk.

Macular degeneration and occupational risk factors: a systematic review

Purpose

Macular degeneration is a multi-factorial disease, leading cause of blindness for people over 50 years old in developed countries. To date, the knowledge on possible occupational factors involved in the development of the disease is scant.

Method

We performed a systematic scientific literature search on the association between macular degeneration and occupational risk factors searching the MedLine and Scopus databases.

Results

We examined 158 articles and, according to the inclusion criteria, 13 peer-reviewed studies evaluating occupational risk factors for macular degeneration or reporting the frequency of the disease in specific groups of workers were included in the review. Ten on thirteen articles evaluated the presence of macular degeneration in workers exposed to solar radiation. Only one study found that non-specific history of occupational chemical exposure was associated with the disease. Two studies showed an association between macular degeneration and the general category of “blue-collar” workers, but they did not identify the specific risk factors involved.

Conclusions

To date few studies have examined occupational risk factors for macular degeneration. Nevertheless, available data indicate that long-term occupational solar radiation exposure, in particular for its blue-light component, is associated with macular degeneration in outdoor workers.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00420-018-1355-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Primary and secondary prevention of skin cancer in mountain guides: attitude and motivation for or against participation

BACKGROUND

Outdoor professionals such as mountain guides are at a substantial risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) due to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure. Despite major recent primary prevention efforts, studies on secondary skin cancer prevention efforts are limited and corresponding data on outdoor workers scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the sun protective behaviour and individual motivations for or against skin cancer screening examinations in the German mountain guide population to aid in the development of effective awareness and prevention strategies.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study among all registered mountain guides in Germany was conducted using a 35-item online questionnaire on primary and secondary prevention of NMSC as well as perceived barriers for prevention.

RESULTS

A total of 145 mountain guides participated in the study in January 2017. Of these, 86.2% reported using sunscreen often or always, 62.1% with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30-50% and 60.7% had undergone dermatological examination by a medical professional. The most common reasons for using secondary prevention efforts were hope of an early diagnosis (77.3%), fear of skin cancer (73.9%) and the intention to be aware of one's own health (70.5%). The main reasons for not doing so were absence of conspicuous skin conditions (63.2%) and feeling healthy (59.6%).

CONCLUSION

Awareness of prevention strategies recommended by the scientific community is low among affected occupationally high-risk mountain guide populations. Understanding the specific needs of this high-risk group is essential for the development of sustainable awareness and prevention strategies.

Different outdoor professions have different risks - a cross-sectional study comparing non-melanoma skin cancer risk among farmers, gardeners and mountain guides

BACKGROUND

One of the main risk factors for non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), the most common cancer worldwide, is solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). This has led to the recognition of NMSC as occupational disease for outdoor workers in several countries. However, outdoor professions are a very heterogeneous group with diverse daily activities and associated UVR exposure.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the prevalence of NMSC and associated risk behaviour in different outdoor professions.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study among outdoor workers (farmers, gardeners, mountain guides) and indoor workers (office employees) as control group using a paper-based questionnaire on UVR exposure and protective behaviour followed by a skin examination by a dermatologist.

RESULTS

A total of 563 participants (46.9% women, 46.9 ± 13.8 years) consisting of 348 outdoor workers (38.8% farmer, 35.3% gardener, 25.9% mountain guides) and 215 indoor workers were included in the study between March and September 2017. NMSC incl. actinic keratosis was diagnosed in 33.3% of mountain guides, 27.4% of farmers, 19.5% of gardeners and in 5.6% of indoor workers. Significant differences were seen between the outdoor professions with mountain guides at highest risk compared to farmers (OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.2-5.7). Substantial differences between the professions were also seen in skin cancer screening attendance rates (indoor worker 61.4%, mountain guides 57.8%, farmers 31.9%, gardeners 27.6%), daily UVR exposure during work and protective behaviour such as sunscreen use during work.

CONCLUSION

Different outdoor professions have significant different risks for NMSC and show different risk behaviour. Tailoring prevention efforts to different professions based on their individual needs could be the key to lower the global burden of (occupational) NMSC.

Environmental effects of ozone depletion, UV radiation and interactions with climate change: UNEP Environmental Effects Assessment Panel, update 2017

The Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) is one of three Panels of experts that inform the Parties to the Montreal Protocol. The EEAP focuses on the effects of UV radiation on human health, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, air quality, and materials, as well as on the interactive effects of UV radiation and global climate change. When considering the effects of climate change, it has become clear that processes resulting in changes in stratospheric ozone are more complex than previously held. Because of the Montreal Protocol, there are now indications of the beginnings of a recovery of stratospheric ozone, although the time required to reach levels like those before the 1960s is still uncertain, particularly as the effects of stratospheric ozone on climate change and vice versa, are not yet fully understood. Some regions will likely receive enhanced levels of UV radiation, while other areas will likely experience a reduction in UV radiation as ozone- and climate-driven changes affect the amounts of UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. Like the other Panels, the EEAP produces detailed Quadrennial Reports every four years; the most recent was published as a series of seven papers in 2015 (Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2015, 14, 1-184). In the years in between, the EEAP produces less detailed and shorter Update Reports of recent and relevant scientific findings. The most recent of these was for 2016 (Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2017, 16, 107-145). The present 2017 Update Report assesses some of the highlights and new insights about the interactive nature of the direct and indirect effects of UV radiation, atmospheric processes, and climate change. A full 2018 Quadrennial Assessment, will be made available in 2018/2019.

Occupational dermatoses reported in Brazil from 2007 to 2014

BACKGROUND

Occupational diseases are very prevalent in the world, especially in developing countries. Occupational dermatoses are responsible for most of these cases. However, epidemiological studies are rare in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES

To verify the panorama of occupational skin diseases in Brazil describing frequencies of work-related dermatoses and their sociodemographic and occupational patterns.

METHODS

We used retrospective data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System, (from 2007-2014) tabulated with the Tab program for Windows - TabWin12. We used intentional non-probability sampling and sequential selection, considering all notified occupational dermatoses.

RESULTS

All cases of occupational dermatoses referred to in the period were analyzed (n = 4710). Males and the age group of 35-49 years were the most affected. The most affected body area was the upper limb (34.2%) and the hand (25.4%). The "causative agent" field in the forms was not filled in 69.4% of cases, with chrome as the most prevalent cause reported (11.8%). ICD-10 codes more prevalent were L23, L24, and L25, corresponding to 34.2% of the sample. In total, 29% of patients needed to take a sick leave. No cases evolved to death and there were 0.2% of total as permanent disability.

STUDY LIMITATIONS

The amount of missing information for various items in the system draws attention.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of patients with occupational dermatitis include the identification and removal of the causative agent and specific treatment of the disease. Diagnosis delay in cases of occupational dermatoses brings social and financial consequences to the work and life of workers.

[Laser treatment of basal cell carcinoma]

With a clear increase in the incidence and a continuously earlier onset, the main risk factors for the development of basal cell carcinoma are still exposure to sunlight, fair skin, immunosuppression, carcinogens such as arsenic, chronic irritations and certain genodermatoses. Treatment options for localized resectionable basal cell carcinoma include micrographically controlled surgery, simple excision, curettage, laser ablation, cryosurgery, imiquimod, 5‑fluorouracil, photodynamic treatment and radiotherapy. Non-surgical treatment options are more suited for cases in which surgical procedures lead to disfigurement or functional impairments or for patients with a high surgical risk. Laser treatment, ablative and non-ablative as monotherapy or in combination can represent a meaningful treatment option in selected cases. In recent years there has been an increase in knowledge about the indications and effects of laser treatment of basal cell carcinoma; nevertheless, further studies with a high level of evidence are necessary.