Retrospective follow-up study of foundry and engine plant workers

Am J Ind Med. 1993 Oct;24(4):485-98. doi: 10.1002/ajim.4700240412.

Abstract

A retrospective follow-up study of 21,013 workers employed at a foundry and two engine manufacturing plants was conducted to determine if these workers had an unusual mortality experience. A total of 2,235 deaths occurred during the follow-up period of 1970-1987. Mortality from all causes was lower than expected. Men experienced a 6-13% excess of lung cancer deaths, depending on the choice of the comparison group. The data displayed evidence of a positive trend between lung cancer mortality and increasing duration of employment (p = 0.008). White men experienced a statistically significant excess of deaths from stomach cancer (standardized mortality ratio [SMR] = 158; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 101-234). Black men had increased mortality from pancreatic cancer, especially among engine plant workers (SMR = 303; CI = 121-624), and an excess of prostate cancer, concentrated among foundry workers (SMR = 234; CI = 112-430).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Black People
  • Cause of Death
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Industry / statistics & numerical data*
  • Lung Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / mortality*
  • Ohio / epidemiology
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Stomach Neoplasms / mortality