Case-control study of brain and other central nervous system cancer among workers at semiconductor and storage device manufacturing facilities

The East Palestine Disaster: The Potential Toxic Effects of Vinyl Chloride Exposure on Cardiovascular Health

This editorial explores the potential link between vinyl chloride (VC) and cardiovascular diseases, specifically in the context of a recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The primary finding of this article suggests a likely increased risk of cardiovascular factors associated with vinyl chloride exposure. This underscores the importance of proactive risk management and enhanced population monitoring. Together, these findings highlight the need for timely interventions to address cardiovascular health concerns in exposed populations.

The Devastating Health Consequences of the Ohio Derailment: A Closer Look at the Effects of Vinyl Chloride Spill

On 3 February 2023, a train derailed in the village of East Palestine, Ohio, home to approximately 4700 residents [...].

Semiconductor Work, Leukemia, and Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

With the development of the semiconductor industry over the past 60 years, various occupational diseases have been reported to coincide with rapid industrial growth. Among these occupational diseases, the association between semiconductor work and cancers, including leukemia, remains controversial. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the associations between semiconductor work, leukemia, and cancer risk.

METHODS

The core research databases, including PubMed, were screened for studies published until 31 July 2022. All eligible studies assessed cancer risk among workers in the semiconductor industry.

RESULTS

Nine studies were selected after a literature review. The employment period of semiconductor workers in each study was between 1965 and 2009. Semiconductor work was not significantly associated with the risk of leukemia (Relative Risk [RR], 1.02; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.74-1.41) or cancer (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.93-1.07).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, semiconductor work was not significantly associated with leukemia or cancer risk. Internal comparisons, such as non-fab workers, quality of the study, employment period, and healthy worker effect, should be considered for interpretation. Furthermore, a prospective cohort study based on overall semiconductor workers in the industry could be useful to assess occupational disease risk as a mandatory component of health assessment.