Work

Expanding Cancer Prevention: Strategies Integrated into Occupational Health Surveillance

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Participation in cancer prevention programs is suboptimal. Socioeconomic backgrounds play a role in cancer awareness and prevention programs. We conducted a narrative review, summarizing the evidence on the integration of cancer prevention extended to non-occupational risk factors at the workplace. Cancer prevention programs include screenings (colonoscopy, mammography, Pap-test), vaccinations (anti-HPV, anti-HBV), and interventions focused on lifestyle changes. Such strategies may face several barriers related to individual or environmental factors. The workplace is potentially an ideal setting for implementing extended cancer prevention strategies because (i) occupational health surveillance (OHS) targets adults, including hard-to-reach subgroups; (ii) it is structured, with health records and exams for risk assessment; (iii) it offers a key chance to promote cancer awareness and prevention through direct worker-physician interaction. Such an innovative approach requires a coordinated effort to build professional networks and manage high-risk workers. Its successful implementation depends on financial support and the active involvement of physicians, employers, and workers. Occupational-based cancer prevention represents a novel and promising strategy, though its feasibility and cost-effectiveness need to be assessed through large-scale studies.

Source: Cancers

DOI: 10.3390/cancers17213535