World Cancer Day

3. 2. 2025

Labour Inspectorate of the Republic of Slovenia

We can also be exposed to carcinogens in the workplace, but cancer is often overlooked as an occupational hazard. That is why it is important to prevent it and reduce the risks of developing the disease. The risk of cancer from carcinogens in the workplace depends on the type and level of exposure, the duration and the individual's susceptibility.

This year, on 4^th February 2025, we are also celebrating World Cancer Day. Work-related cancers remain one of the biggest health challenges in the workplace in Europe and worldwide, which makes raising awareness and taking action in this area all the more important.

According to the European Commission (2020), approximately 120,000 new cases of cancer related to occupational exposure to carcinogens are reported in the European Union each year, with around 80,000 deaths annually.

Cancer is the leading cause of work-related deaths in the European Union, according to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. More than 50 % of all deaths from occupational hazards are due to occupational cancer (European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (2022) and Kuhl and Lisser (2022) and Chemicals — European Environment Agency).

More than 30 million tonnes of carcinogens, mutagens, and reproductive toxicants are produced annually in Europe, as reported by Eurostat (2021). In addition to chemicals, there are biological, physical and organisational factors that can contribute to cancer. Some types of work-related cancers (such as lung cancer and mesothelioma) have a high mortality rate.

The widespread exposure of workers has led to growing calls for concerted action to protect their health and improve working conditions. New initiatives are therefore being taken at European level to reduce exposure to carcinogens and risky organisational conditions, with the aim of limiting adverse health effects.

More detailed and up-to-date information is available in the published article Work-related cancer - OSHwiki | European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. In addition to an overview of the hazards and risks of occupational exposure, legislation and policy measures, it also provides an up-to-date insight into preventive measures. These include:

Prevention (avoiding the use of carcinogens) and substitution by harmless means,
technical-organisational and personal solutions,
examples of good practice and guidelines,
treatment, rehabilitation and return-to-work options.

Employers have a responsibility to minimise these risks by taking appropriate precautions, taking into account the STOP strategy. Early detection and prevention are also key. More information on risks, carcinogens, protective measures and the STOP strategy.