EARLY DETECTION OF CANCER IN WORKERS EXPO SED TO CARCINOGENIC SUBSTANCES

Background: In most cases the target organ of carcinogenic substances is known. Thus, applying diagnosis for specific organs, it is possible to detect occupational cancer in a stage where prospects for a succes sful therapy are still high. Methods: Considering the experiences of o ccupational medicine, invasive and non-invasive techniques for the ear ly detection of occupational cancer are critically reviewed. Conclusio ns: The complete occupational history is an important issue in the ear ly detection strategies in workers exposed to carcinogenic substances at the workplace. An important step is to identify exposed subjects wi th an increased risk of suffering from cancer of specific organs. With in the proposed diagnostic scheme it is necessary to look for site-spe cific signs of exposure. Biological monitoring and biological effect m onitoring can also contribute to the diagnostic process. Concerning th e individual case, emphasis must be put on the tight cooperation betwe en the medical disciplines. It is referred to the obligation of every physician to inform the Employment Accident Insurance Funds if there i s a confirmed suspicion of occupational disease.