Cancer among potash workers in Saskatchewan.

Abstract

To investigate what factors contribute to the increased risk of developing cancer among potash mine workers. Data on 1434 male potash workers based on a nested case-control ( potash workers whose personal identifiers matched those of an individual registered with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, Controls: all other potash workers) study design were analyzed. An occupational history of farming (RR [95% CI =]: 1.79 [1.26, 2.55]), presence of pleurisy at baseline [1.90 (1.07 to 3.40)], previous hard rock mining experience [1.74 (1.01 to 3.00)], and age statistically significantly elevated the risk of becoming a case. Smoking status was an effect modifier for the relationship between any respiratory disease at baseline and cancer. Age; previous occupational history of farming and rock mining; interaction between any respiratory disease and smoking status were positively associated with the development of cancer.