Are New York Workers at risk for Lung Cancer?

It is no secret that some occupations are more dangerous than others. For example, construction workers in New York face injury and accident rates much higher than most other job classifications in the city. There is even a recent study highlighting the unusually high accident rates for hotel employees, especially those in housekeeping.

While many people think that smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, a new study in Italy shows that men involved in certain high-risk occupations are also at an increased risk of lung cancer. Researchers determined that about five percent of all lung cancer cases in male patients could be attributed to their workplace environment.

Lung cancer is actually the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., accounting for more lives lost than colon, prostate, ovarian, lymph and breast cancers combined. Risk factors for lung cancer include smoking, second hand smoke, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos and workplace chemicals like arsenic, chromium, nickel and tar, a family history of lung cancer or lung disease, and excessive alcohol use.

Jobs with Lung Cancer Risks

The study authors cautioned that because of the size of the study the results needed further study, but did note that certain occupations may be associated with a greater lung cancer risk:

• Mining
• Metalworking
• Construction
• Gas stations
• Leather tanning
• Glass work
• Welders
• Dry cleaners

Signs of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a serious disease. One challenge is that there really aren’t any symptoms in the early stage of the disease, so it isn’t until the cancer has progressed that symptoms show up. Because of this, it is important to act quickly if you suspect that you are experiencing a symptom of lung cancer.

Signs of lung cancer include:

• A newly developed cough that will not go away
• A chronic cough that changes
• A "smoker's cough" that changes
• Coughing up any amount of blood
• Feeling short of breath
• Experiencing chest pain
• Feeling wheezy or hoarse
• Unexpected weight loss

If you suspect that you are suffering from a medical condition that is the result of your work environment, then TAKE ACTION. Contact the experienced New York workers’ compensation attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman immediately. They will review your case for no charge or obligation, and will help you determine how to secure fair, just compensation for your work-related injury or disease.

Markhoff & Mittman, P.C.

14 Mamaroneck Avenue

Suite 400

White Plains, NY 10601

Toll Free: (866) 205-2415

Phone: (914) 946-1452

Fax: (914) 946-0810

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