Background: The objective is to summarize the results of studies of prostate cancer risk among metal workers, mechanics, and repairmen in order to evaluate the magnitude of risk and to investigate the role of specific work-related hazards in the development of this disease.
Methods: Review of literature.
Results: In most of the studies reviewed, a slight excess risk of prostate cancer incidence or mortality was observed among metal workers and repairmen. It is as yet unclear, however, whether this excess risk is caused by particular occupational exposures or by risk factors in personal life style (e.g., dietary habits). Hardest evidence is found of a relationship to exist between the use of cutting oils or other metal-work liquids and prostate cancer risk.
Conclusions: It would appear that metal workers, mechanics, and repairmen run a slightly elevated risk of prostate cancer. However, the actual risk factors are still unknown.