IARC scientists reassess carcinogenicity of asbestos, beryllium, nickel, silica dusts and others

IARC scientists reassess carcinogenicity of asbestos, beryllium, nickel, silica dusts and others


06-May-2009
At a recent meeting organised by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 27 scientists from eight countries reassessed the carcinogenicity status and modes of action of several chemicals. Their conclusions are summarised in the Journal The Lancet Oncology in advance of publication of formal IARC monographs.
Beryllium and its compounds, cadmium and its compounds, chromium (VI) compounds and nickel compounds were all reaffirmed as carcinogenic to humans.
The scientists noted that there was now sufficient evidence to confirm that asbestos not only causes lung cancer and mesothelioma but also cancer of the larynx and ovary. Reassessing different types of asbestos, they concluded that "all types of asbestos are carcinogenic to humans" and that mineral substances such as talc or vermiculite that sometimes contain asbestos should also be considered carcinogenic. Worryingly, they further noted that asbestos use is increasing in Asia, South America and the former Soviet Union and that its use in products such as brake linings is resulting in worldwide exposure.
Other substances reviewed were erionite, silica dust, wood dust and leather dust.
The Lancet Oncology full article

http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(09)70134-2/fulltext?_eventId=login#tbl1