Two Epidemiological Inquiries Into the Incidence of Bladder Tumors in Industrial Workers

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Abstract
Two epidemiological studies of the incidence of bladder tumors in industrial workers are described. The first study outlines the dynamics of 33 tumors of the bladder which were registered for 30 members of the male population of a rubber factory between 1948 and 1967. Account was taken of risk criteria related to time and place of work. Of the tumors, 22 were carcinomas; 11 were papillomas. For 15 of the 30 individuals in whom tumors were registered, there was conclusive evidence of exposure to a known carcinogenic rubber antioxidant. Control data from bladder tumor registrations at a Regional Cancer Registry were compared to those from 1,400 men exposed to the chemical before 1949 when it was withdrawn; 10 cases of carcinoma of the bladder(3.5 expected) and 6 cases of papilloma (1.4 expected) were found. These differences between the observed and expected numbers of tumors are statistically significant. The second study outlines the results of a Coroner's Notification Scheme for all bladder tumors occurring in a county borough within a 5-year period. In total, 49 cases of bladder tumors were notified, whereas 39 could have been expected in the same period of time; this difference is not statistically significant. In 16 cases (33%), a potentially significant occupational history was apparent—this according to criteria adopted in an industry and occupation checklist used. A plea is made for more epidemiological studies to be carried out at factory level, where it is known that a potential hazard of developing an occupationally induced bladder tumor has existed.

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