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Med. Pr. 2002;53(1)

Health effects of occupational exposure to chemical substances in smokers

Skutki zdrowotne narażenia zawodowego na substancje chemiczne u palaczy tytoniu

Andrzej Starek

Abstract

Based on the literature,devoted primarily to epidemiological studies,major health effects of combined exposure to chemicals and tobacco smoke are discussed. Among various effects, the following are taken into consideration: neoplasms with special concern for lung cancer, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Relative risks of these diseases and the absolute risk of lung cancer associated with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are presented. In conclusion, smoking history should be taken into account during prophylactic examinations of workers.

Key words

tobacco smoke, cancer, relative and absolute risk, respiratory and circulatory system diseases