P-65 Epidemiological profile of occupational pleuropulmonary cancers in Tunisia. (14th March 2023) - Magroun, Imene
Abstract : Introduction: Pleuropulmonary cancers (PPC) are the most frequent occupational cancers. The major problem remains the under declaration of these cancers due to their multifactorial aspect and its long latency. The aim of our study was to describe the epidemiological profile of occupational PPC. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study which had included patients with occupational PPC during the period from 2017 to Novembre 2022 was carried out in a university hospital in Tunisia. Results: Twenty two occupational PPC were registred. The average age was 62±10 years. They were aged between 50 and 69 years in 68% of cases. They were smokers in 95% of cases, with an average consumption of 42 packs/year per person. The onset time of PPC after retirement age ranged from one to 32 years for 55% patients. The histological types of PPC were adenocarcinoma (41%), squamous cell carcinoma (27%), small cell carcinoma (18%) and large cell cancer (9%). One case of pleural mesothelioma was registered. Occupational sectors were construction (32%), agriculture (14%), welding (14%), metallurgy (13%) and naval reparation (9%). The carcinogens incriminated were asbestos fibres (73%), silica dust (9%), coal combustion soot (9%) and arsenic dust (9%). A medico-legal reparation of occupational PPC has been proceeded for all patients. Conclusion: According to our study, occupational PPC mainly affects male smokers. Asbestos remains the most responsible carcinogen. An early diagnosis in at-risk workers from the age of 50 adding to an after retirement medical follow-up is necessary.