The Relationship of Kidney Cancer and Occupation in Isfahan Province, Iran; a Case-Control Study



Tajvidi M¹ ; Najafi S² ; Molana SH² ; Gharib S³ ; Hemati S¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2013

Abstract

Background: One of the most important environmental risk factors for kidney cancer is occupational exposure to chemical carcinogens. Since the Isfahan province is one of the major industrial centers in Iran and various chemical industries operating in the province, this study was conducted to determine the association of kidney cancer and occupation. Methods: This case-control study was conducted in 2012 in Isfahan, Iran. Patients with cancer diagnosed between 2002 and 2010 were considered as the case group (n = 180); one group of age and sex matched healthy persons were considered as controls (n = 452). Demographic and employment data were gathered from the hospital records of patients; in the absence of sufficient information, the patient's family was contacted. Findings: In the patient and control groups there were 24 and 44 labors, 24 and 101 employees, 46 and 114 self-employed, 58 and 123 households, 26 and 47 farmer and rancher, and 4 and 23 other jobs, respectively (P = 0.017). Of the case group, 34.4% and of the controls, 25.7% were in contact with chemical agents for more than 5 years in place of working (P = 0.027). In the patient group, 32.1% were in contact with fertilizer, 46.6% with color, and 14.3% with chemical warfare agents, while in the control group 21.1% were in contact with fertilizer, 12.8% with color, 14.7% with oil, and 14.7% with synthetic chemicals (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Exposure to various chemicals in patients with kidney cancer in Isfahan is one of the risk factors for kidney cancer. Given the known carcinogenic effects of various chemicals, it is necessary to assign specific rules and improve occupational health in industry regarding exposure of workers to chemical agents and to conduct periodical tests.