Asbestos related cancers: burden and recognition as occupational diseases

Abstract

Although asbestos has been banned in Switzerland since 1989, diseases caused by asbestos are still present and increasing today. In Switzerland, per year, occupational exposure to asbestos is responsible for approximately 135 deaths from mesothelioma and 930 deaths from lung cancer, though the latter is rarely recognized as an occupational disease. Taking an occupational history is essential for all such diagnosis, especially in smokers, whose risk of lung cancer increases due to the synergistic effect of asbestos and tobacco exposure. The medical practitioner can play an important role in occupational diseases being recognized as such, which is essential for the reimbursement of medical expenses by the accident insurance companies and the allocation of indemnities and pensions for the patient or their family.