Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Research Article

Asbestos exposure and autoantibody titers: Eunsoo Lee, Youngki Kim, Se Yeong Kim, Dongmug Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2020;32:e32. Published online September 1, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2020.32.e32

Background

Asbestos is a well-known hazardous substance that causes occupational and environmental diseases including asbestosis (lung fibrosis). Silica exposure which causes silicosis (another type of lung fibrosis) has long been linked to the development of autoimmune diseases; however, there are few studies on the relationship between asbestos exposure and autoimmune diseases.

Methods

A total of 54 individuals who had worked in a former asbestos textile factory underwent autoantibody-related blood tests, chest X-ray imaging, and pulmonary function tests. Based on the job exposure matrix (JEM), the estimated asbestos exposure concentrations were determined, and the presence of asbestosis was determined by chest radiography.

Results

Scleroderma (Scl-70) and ribonucleoprotein (RNP) antibodies were significantly lowered in the pleural plaque present group than in the absent group. Additionally, Scl-70, RNP, and Sjögren's syndrome type B (SS-B) antibodies were significantly lowered in the asbestosis present group. When stratifying variables with or without asbestosis, Scl-70, Smith, SS-B, and RNP antibodies decreased in female, crocidolite handling group, and higher estimated asbestos exposure level group.

Conclusions

Contrary to our expectations that autoantibody titers would be higher in groups with high asbestos exposure or in the asbestosis group, those with asbestosis showed lower titers. But as our research has some methodological limitations, the lowered titer of autoimmune antibody in our asbestos exposed subjects could not be simply interpreted as a lowered risk of autoimmune diseases. So careful interpreting should be taken when examine autoantibodies to screening or diagnose autoimmune diseases in people with asbestos exposure. In addition, it is necessary to establish relevance of asbestosis and autoantibodies through further studies of larger scale and higher confidence levels.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Amphibole asbestos as an environmental trigger for systemic autoimmune diseases
Jean C. Pfau, Brett McLaurin, Brenda J. Buck, Frederick W. Miller
Autoimmunity Reviews.2024; 23(7-8): 103603. CrossRef

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Case Report

Gastric and rectal cancers in workers exposed to asbestos: a case series: Byeong Ju Choi, Saerom Lee, Iu Jin Lee, Soon Woo Park, Sanggil Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2020;32:e4. Published online January 2, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2020.32.e4

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Background

The Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (OSHRI) of the Korea had not recognized gastrointestinal cancer as work-related disease during their evaluation. However, in 2018 OSHRI recognized gastric and rectal cancers as work-related disease in asbestos-exposed workers. We present 2 such cases along supportive evidence of causation.

Case presentation

Patient A: A 57-year-old man had worked for about 40 years since 1978 as an oxygen cutter at workplaces that dismantle ships, buildings, boilers, and thermal power plants. In November 2016, endoscopy and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of advanced gastric cancer, for which he underwent subtotal gastrectomy and chemotherapy; however, he later died of the cancer. Patient B: A 71-year-old man had worked in shipbuilding and repair workplaces for approximately 49 years, being employed in pipe laying, asbestos insulation installation, grinding, and other ship repair work. In 2003, he was diagnosed of rectal cancer by abdominal computed tomography. He accordingly underwent surgical removal of the cancer. Based on the occupational history of the 2 patients and our review of the relevant literature addressing the occupational environment, we concluded that both patients had continuous exposure to high levels of asbestos while performing their jobs for 40 and 49 years, respectively.

Conclusion

Both patients had a history of smoking and drinking (non-occupational personal risk factors). However, the possibility of an increased risk of gastric and rectal cancers from asbestos exposure cannot be excluded. Therefore, we considered that occupational exposure to asbestos had contributed to the cancer diagnosis in these cases. Workers exposed to asbestos should be made aware of the possibility of gastric or rectal cancer, and should undergo monitoring and medical examinations. Appropriate compensation for gastric and rectal cancers that occur in workers exposed to asbestos are anticipated in future.

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Sustainable management of hazardous asbestos-containing materials: Containment, stabilization and inertization
Shiv Bolan, Leela Kempton, Timothy McCarthy, Hasintha Wijesekara, Udara Piyathilake, Tahereh Jasemizad, Lokesh P. Padhye, Tao Zhang, Jörg Rinklebe, Hailong Wang, M.B. Kirkham, Kadambot H.M. Siddique, Nanthi Bolan
Science of The Total Environment.2023; 881: 163456. CrossRef
Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse
Yangwoo Kim, Inah Kim, Jung-Min Sung, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
Increased Risk of Gastric Cancer in Asbestos-Exposed Workers: A Retrospective Cohort Study Based on Taiwan Cancer Registry 1980–2015
Yi-Jen Fang, Hung-Yi Chuang, Chih-Hong Pan, Yu-Yin Chang, Yawen Cheng, Lukas Jyuhn-Hsiarn Lee, Jung-Der Wang
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(14): 7521. CrossRef
Assessing Energy-Based CO2 Emission and Workers’ Health Risks at the Shipbreaking Industries in Bangladesh
Nandita Mitra, Shihab Ahmad Shahriar, Nurunnaher Lovely, Md Shohel Khan, Aweng Eh Rak, S. P. Kar, Md Abdul Khaleque, Mohamad Faiz Mohd Amin, Imrul Kayes, Mohammed Abdus Salam
Environments.2020; 7(5): 35. CrossRef

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Case Report

Ovarian cancer in a former asbestos textile factory worker: a case report: Sunwook Park, Jaechan Park, Eunsoo Lee, Huisu Eom, Mu Young Shin, Jungwon Kim, Dongmug Kang, Sanggil Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:65. Published online November 16, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0277-1

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Background

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) defined that asbestos is a group 1 substance that causes lung cancer, mesothelioma (pleura and peritoneum), laryngeal cancer, and ovarian cancer in humans. Many studies on lung cancer, and mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure have been conducted, but there was no case report of ovarian cancer due to asbestos exposure in Korea. We describe a case of ovarian cancer caused by asbestos exposure in a worker who worked at an asbestos textile factory for 3 years and 7 months in the late 1970s.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old woman visited the hospital because she had difficulty urinating. Ovarian cancer was suspected in radiologic examination, and exploratory laparotomy was performed. She was diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer. The patient did not undergo postoperative chemotherapy and recovered. She joined the asbestos factory in March 1976 and engaged in asbestos textile twisting and spinning for 1 year, 2 years and 7 months respectively. In addition, she lived near the asbestos factory for more than 20 years. There was no other specificity or family history.

Conclusion

Considering the patient’s occupational and environmental history, it is estimated that she had been exposed to asbestos significantly, so we determined that ovarian cancer in the patient is highly correlated with the occupational exposure of asbestos and environmental exposure is a possible cause as well. Social devices are needed to prevent further exposure to asbestos. It is also necessary to recognize that ovarian cancer can occur in workers who have previously been exposed to asbestos, and the education and social compensation for those workers are needed.

Citations

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Asbestos-Related Diseases and Its Impact on Health: An Updated Review Article
Wasey Ali Yadullahi Mir, Ayusha Poudel, Anurag Adhikari, Dhan Bahadur Shrestha, Yubraj Sedhai, Peter LaCamera, Andrew Moraco
Current Pulmonology Reports.2023; 12(4): 244. CrossRef
Primary Ovarian Mesothelioma: A Case Series with Electron Microscopy Examination and Review of the Literature
Luigi Vimercati, Domenica Cavone, Maria Celeste Delfino, Biagio Bruni, Luigi De Maria, Antonio Caputi, Stefania Sponselli, Roberta Rossi, Leonardo Resta, Francesco Fortarezza, Federica Pezzuto, Gabriella Serio
Cancers.2021; 13(9): 2278. CrossRef
Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse
Yangwoo Kim, Inah Kim, Jung-Min Sung, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2021;[Epub] CrossRef

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Research Article

The characteristics of asbestos-related disease claims made to the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service (KCOMWEL) from 2011 to 2015: Yon Soo An, Hyung Doo Kim, Hyeoung Cheol Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Yeon Soon Ahn; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:45. Published online July 11, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0256-6

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Background

This study aimed to enhance understanding of the epidemiologic characteristics of asbestos-related diseases, and to provide information that could inform policy-making aimed at prevention and compensation for occupational asbestos exposure, through analyzing asbestos-related occupational disease claims to Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service from 2011 to 2015.

Methods

We analyzed 113 workers who filed medical care claims or survivor benefits for asbestos exposure and occupational-related disease from 2011 to 2015. Among these claims, we selected approved workers’ compensation claims relating to malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer, and analyzed the general characteristics, exposure characteristics, pathological characteristics, and occupation and industry distribution.

Results

Malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer occurred predominantly in males at 89.7 and 94%, respectively. The mean age at the time of diagnosis for malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer was 59.5 and 59.7 years, respectively, while the latency period for malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer was 34.1 and 33.1 years, respectively. The companies involving exposed workers were most commonly situated within the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam region. Histology results for lung cancer indicated adenocarcinoma as the most common form, accounting for approximately one half of all claims, followed by squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell lung cancer. The most common occupation type was construction in respect of malignant mesothelioma, and shipbuilding in respect of lung cancer.

Conclusions

Considering the long latency period of asbestos and that the peak period of asbestos use in Korea was throughout the mid-1990s, damage due to asbestos-related diseases is expected to show a continued long-term increase. Few studies providing an epidemiologic analysis of asbestos-related diseases are available; therefore, this study may provide baseline data to assist in predicting and preparing for future harm due to asbestos exposure.

Trial registration

DUIH 2018–02–004-001. Registered 28 Februrary 2018.

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William Dodge Stevens, Teamwork Builds Ships, 1918
Paul J Nicholson
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Explaining the Invisibility of Asbestos-Related Diseases in the Taiwan Workers’ Compensation System
Yawen Cheng, Yi-Ling Huang, Lukas Jyuhn-Hsiarn Lee
NEW SOLUTIONS: A Journal of Environmental and Occupational Health Policy.2022; 32(2): 106. CrossRef
Standardized Incidence Ratio and Standardized Mortality Ratio of Malignant Mesothelioma in a Worker Cohort Using Employment Insurance Database in Korea
Eun-A Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(20): 10682. CrossRef
Survival of Korean Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Compensated for the Asbestos Injury Relief
Min-Sung Kang, Sung-Soo Lee, Soon-Chan Kwon, Da-An Huh, Yong-Jin Lee
Applied Sciences.2021; 11(20): 9713. CrossRef
The Epidemiologic Characteristics of Malignant Mesothelioma Cases in Korea: Findings of the Asbestos Injury Relief System from 2011–2015
Soon-Chan Kwon, Sung-Soo Lee, Min-Sung Kang, Da-An Huh, Yong-Jin Lee
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(19): 10007. CrossRef
Malignant mesothelioma in construction workers: the Apulia regional mesothelioma register, Southern Italy
L. Vimercati, D. Cavone, A. Caputi, M. C. Delfino, L. De Maria, G. M. Ferri, G. Serio
BMC Research Notes.2019;[Epub] CrossRef

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Short Communication

Environmental health centers for asbestos and their health impact surveys and activities: Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Yong-Jin Lee, Hyun-Hee Lee, Chang-yeol Lee, Seong-Jae Moon, Min-Sung Kang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2016;28:68. Published online December 1, 2016; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-016-0154-8

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

In 2009, Korea banned the import, transport, and use of asbestos, and the Asbestos Injury Relief Act (AIRA) was promulgated in 2011. Two environmental health centers for asbestos (EHCA), including Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital (PNUYH) and SoonChunHyang University Cheonan Hospital (SCHUCH), were adapted to find environmental asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) and to support the purposes of AIRA. EHCA conducted a health impact survey (HIS) on persons who resided or reside near asbestos factories or mines. A total of 13,433 persons have taken screening examinations in PNUYH EHCA, and 623 persons (4.6%) have had secondary examinations. Of the 21,014 persons who had screening examinations in SCHUCH EHCA, 2490 persons (11.8%) had secondary examinations. Some of those who tested positive for ARDs through HISs filed applications for the asbestos victims’ medical pocketbook (AVMP). Approximately 116 and 612 persons received AVMPs as a result of PNUYH and SCHUCH examinees, respectively. EHCAs have conducted HISs, public relations, and education for asbestos victims, ordinary citizens, and physicians. As HISs are based on voluntary participation, they does not monitor high-risk groups. Active surveillance focusing on high-risk groups has been blocked by the personal information protection act. Although important work has been performed in finding environmental asbestos victims and increasing public awareness on asbestos, it is necessary to improve the current system and registration.

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Air pollution and survival in patients with malignant mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer: a follow-up study of 1591 patients in South Korea
Da-An Huh, Yun-Hee Choi, Lita Kim, Kangyeon Park, Jiyoun Lee, Se Hyun Hwang, Kyong Whan Moon, Min-Sung Kang, Yong-Jin Lee
Environmental Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Occupational and Environmental Asbestos Exposure and Survival of Patients with Asbestos-Related Cancer: A Follow-Up Study on Patients with Malignant Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer in Korea
Min-Sung Kang, Woo-Ri Chae, Yong-Jin Lee, Kyong Whan Moon
Toxics.2023; 12(1): 20. CrossRef
Disease Latency according to Asbestos Exposure Characteristics among Malignant Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Cases in South Korea
Da-An Huh, Woo-Ri Chae, Yun-Hee Choi, Min-Sung Kang, Yong-Jin Lee, Kyong-Whan Moon
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(23): 15934. CrossRef
Occupational and environmental asbestos exposure and the risk of lung cancer in Korea: A case-control study in South Chungcheong Province of Korea
Da-An Huh, Min-Sung Kang, Jiyun Lee, Ji Yoon Choi, Kyong Whan Moon, Yong-Jin Lee, Flavio Manoel Rodrigues Da Silva Júnior
PLOS ONE.2021; 16(4): e0249790. CrossRef
Development of Nationwide Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk Evaluation Methods with Comprehensive Past Asbestos Exposure Reconstruction
Dongmug Kang, Seung Ho Lee, Yoon Ji Kim, Tae Kyoung Kim, Ju Young Kim, Youngki Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(6): 2819. CrossRef
Epidemiological Findings on Health Effects of Environmental Exposure to Airborne Asbestos
Hideki Hasunuma, Masayuki Shima
Material Cycles and Waste Management Research.2020; 31(5): 366. CrossRef
Relationships of Lower Lung Fibrosis, Pleural Disease, and Lung Mass with Occupational, Household, Neighborhood, and Slate Roof-Dense Area Residential Asbestos Exposure
Dongmug Kang, Yu-Young Kim, Minseung Shin, Min-Su Lee, Hee-Joo Bae, Se-Yeong Kim, Young-Ki Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2018; 15(8): 1638. CrossRef
Monitoring and Simulating Environmental Asbestos Dispersion from a Textile Factory
Dongmug Kang, Yongsik Hwang, Yeyong Choi, Se-Yeong Kim, Young-Ki Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2018; 15(7): 1398. CrossRef
Occupational Burden of Asbestos-Related Diseases in Korea, 1998–2013: Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, Laryngeal Cancer, and Ovarian Cancer
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Young-Ki Kim, Hyun-Hee Lee, Se-Yeong Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
The Asbestos Ban in Korea from a Grassroots Perspective: Why Did It Occur?
Yu-Ryong Yoon, Kyeong Kwak, Yeyong Choi, Kanwoo Youn, Jinwook Bahk, Dong-Mug Kang, Domyung Paek
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2018; 15(2): 198. CrossRef

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Case Report

A case of laryngeal cancer induced by exposure to asbestos in a construction site supervisor: Sooyong Roh, Soyong Park, Gyeong Tae, Jaechul Song; Ann Occup Environ Med 2016;28:34. Published online August 8, 2016; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-016-0114-3

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Background

Construction site supervisors are exposed to many chemicals, dusts, and metals including asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous chemical that is carcinogenic. Laryngeal cancer is not a rare disease in Korea. The most common causes of this disease are tobacco and alcohol, and representative occupational cause is asbestos. However, up to now, no case of laryngeal cancer induced by asbestos has been reported in Korea. In this study, we report such a case in a construction site supervisor.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old man who had been experiencing hoarseness for 2 months was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. The pathologic diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma in situ, based on examination of a biopsy specimen obtained by resection of the lesion. The patient had been exposed to asbestos for 38 years at construction sites where he worked until diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. He had been exposed to asbestos when demolishing buildings and inspecting materials.

Conclusion

The patient in this case worked with construction materials including asbestos and supervised construction for 38 years, and was thus exposed to asbestos at construction sites. Much of the asbestos was highly concentrated especially during demolition processes. We therefore consider the laryngeal cancer of this patient to be a work-related disease.

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Cancer risk assessment of exposure to asbestos during old building demolition
Reza Zandavar Javad Hesari, Yahya Rasoulzadeh, Yousef Mohammadian, Nafiseh Nasirzadeh
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Trend and projection of larynx cancer incidence and mortality in China from 1990 to 2044: A Bayesian age–period–cohort modeling study
Enlin Ye, Jiasheng Huang, Jia Wang, Yumei Zhao, Dongdong Niu, Jie Liu, Xueying Huang, Suru Yue, Xuefei Hou, Jiayuan Wu
Cancer Medicine.2023; 12(15): 16517. CrossRef
Environmental health centers for asbestos and their health impact surveys and activities
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Yong-Jin Lee, Hyun-Hee Lee, Chang-yeol Lee, Seong-Jae Moon, Min-Sung Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef

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Review

Review of carcinogenicity of asbestos and proposal of approval standards of an occupational cancer caused by asbestos in Korea: Sanghyuk Im, Kan-woo Youn, Donghee Shin, Myeoung-jun Lee, Sang-Jun Choi; Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:34. Published online December 30, 2015; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0080-1

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Carcinogenicity of asbestos has been well established for decades and it has similar approval standards in most advanced countries based on a number of studies and international meetings. However, Korea has been lagging behind such international standards. In this study, we proposed the approval standards of an occupational cancer due to asbestos through intensive review on the Helsinki Criteria, post-Helsinki studies, job exposure matrix (JEM) based on the analysis of domestic reports and recognized occupational lung cancer cases in Korea. The main contents of proposed approval standards are as follows; ① In recognizing an asbestos-induced lung cancer, diagnosis of asbestosis should be based on CT. In addition, initial findings of asbestosis on CT should be considered. ② High Exposure industries and occupations to asbestos should be also taken into account in Korea ③ An expert’s determination is warranted in case of a worker who has been concurrently exposed to other carcinogens, even if the asbestos exposure duration is less than 10 years. ④ Determination of a larynx cancer due to asbestos exposure has the same approval standards with an asbestos-induced lung cancer. However, for an ovarian cancer, an expert’s judgment is necessary even if asbestosis, pleural plaque or pleural thickening and high concentration asbestos exposure are confirmed. ⑤ Cigarette smoking status or the extent should not affect determination of an occupational cancer caused by asbestos as smoking and asbestos have a synergistic effect in causing a lung cancer and they are involved in carcinogenesis in a complicated manner.

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Assessing trends and burden of occupational exposure to asbestos in the United States: a comprehensive analysis from 1990 to 2019
Xujun Li, Xin Su, Li Wei, Junhang Zhang, Donglei Shi, Zhaojun Wang
BMC Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
A case of laryngeal cancer induced by exposure to asbestos in a construction site supervisor
Sooyong Roh, Soyong Park, Gyeong Tae, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef

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Case Report

Risk assessment of gastric cancer associated with asbestosis: a case report: Soo-Hong Park, Dong-Mug Kang, Bon-Hak Koo, Young-Ki Kim, Jong-Eun Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:9. Published online March 13, 2015; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0061-4

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Background

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies asbestos as belonging to Carcinogen Group 2A for gastric cancer. We herein report a case of gastric cancer associated with asbestosis and describe the work-related and risk assessments of asbestos exposure for gastric cancer.

Case presentation

The 66-year-old male patient in our case worked in asbestos spinning factories. His level of cumulated asbestos fiber exposure was estimated to be 38.0–71.0 f-yr/cc. Thus, the Excess Life Cancer Risk for lung cancer associated with asbestos exposure was 9,648×10⁻⁵, almost 9,600 times the value recommended by the United States of America Environmental Protection Agency (1 × 10⁻⁵). The relative risk of developing lung cancer for this patient was more than 25 f-yr/cc, a well-known criterion for doubling the risk of lung cancer.

Conclusion

The patient’s exposure to high-dose asbestos was sufficient to increase his risk of gastric cancer because as the risk of lung cancer increased, the risk of gastric cancer was due to increase as well. Therefore, occupational asbestos fiber exposure might be associated with gastric cancer in this case.

Citations

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Asbestos-Related Diseases and Its Impact on Health: An Updated Review Article
Wasey Ali Yadullahi Mir, Ayusha Poudel, Anurag Adhikari, Dhan Bahadur Shrestha, Yubraj Sedhai, Peter LaCamera, Andrew Moraco
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Manuela Valenzuela, Margarita Giraldo, Sonia Gallo-Murcia, Juliana Pineda, Laura Santos, Juan Pablo Ramos-Bonilla
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Review

Systematic Review of the Effects of Asbestos Exposure on the Risk of Cancer between Children and Adults: Dongmug Kang, Min-Seung Myung, Young-Ki Kim, Jong-Eun Kim; Ann Occup Environ Med 2013;25:10-10. Published online July 8, 2013; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/2052-4374-25-10

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Children are considerably more susceptible to enviro006Emental hazards than adults. This study was conducted to investigate whether the first asbestos exposure in childhood increases the risk of asbestos-related cancer including mesothelioma and lung cancer. MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Google Scholar were searched to find relevant studies published up to July 2012. Six studies reported the relationship between age, including age during childhood, at the first asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. Among them, 4 indicated that people exposed to asbestos in childhood have a higher risk of mesothelioma than those exposed in adulthood. Meanwhile, the other 2 studies showed that asbestos exposure later in life increases the risk of mesothelioma. The results of the 2 studies including non-occupational early childhood exposure report conflicting results. There were 3 studies regarding the relationship between age at first asbestos exposure and lung cancer. However, none of them reported an association between age at first asbestos exposure and the risk of lung cancer. All studies have limitations including small numbers of subjects, the validity of the standardized mortality ratio, and different age categories at first asbestos exposure. There are only a few studies on the harmful effects of asbestos in children in the literature. Therefore, the effect of asbestos exposure during childhood remains unclear and requires further study.

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Sofie Bünemann Dalsgaard, Else Toft Würtz, Johnni Hansen, Oluf Dimitri Røe, Øyvind Omland
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Yuan-Long Zhang, Hwi-Seok Byeon, Won-Hwa Hong, Gi-Wook Cha, Yoon-Ha Lee, Young-Chan Kim
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Environmental asbestos exposure in childhood and risk of mesothelioma later in life: a long-term follow-up register-based cohort study
Sofie Bünemann Dalsgaard, Else Toft Würtz, Johnni Hansen, Oluf Dimitri Røe, Øyvind Omland
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Alison Reid, Peter Franklin, Geoffrey Berry, Susan Peters, Nita Sodhi-Berry, Fraser Brims, Arthur William Musk, Nicholas H de Klerk
Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018; 75(12): 898. CrossRef
Time-dependent effect of intensity of smoking and of occupational exposure to asbestos on the risk of lung cancer: results from the ICARE case–control study
Emilie Lévêque, Aude Lacourt, Danièle Luce, Marie-Pierre Sylvestre, Pascal Guénel, Isabelle Stücker, Karen Leffondré
Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018; 75(8): 586. CrossRef
Environmental health centers for asbestos and their health impact surveys and activities
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Yong-Jin Lee, Hyun-Hee Lee, Chang-yeol Lee, Seong-Jae Moon, Min-Sung Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
Environmental asbestos exposure sources in Korea
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Ju-Young Kim, Hyun-Hee Lee, Young-Sik Hwang, Young-Ki Kim, Yong-Jin Lee
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health.2016; 22(4): 307. CrossRef
Risk assessment of gastric cancer associated with asbestosis: a case report
Soo-Hong Park, Dong-Mug Kang, Bon-Hak Koo, Young-Ki Kim, Jong-Eun Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef
Biological effects of argentine asbestos: mineralogical and morphological characterisation
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Environmental Earth Sciences.2015; 73(7): 3433. CrossRef

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Original Article

A Study of Psychosocial Stress of Residents Near Asbestos Mines: Young Sik Shin, Yong Jin Lee, Jung Oh Ham, Eun Chul Jang, Chan Ho Park, Min Sung Kang, Seung Kwon Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(4):375-383. Published online December 31, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.4.375

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this study is to identify the level of psychosocial stress of residents near asbestos mines, and to investigate the relationship between psychosocial stress and asbestos exposure history as well as, asbestos exposure awareness.
METHODS
The survey was conducted in 297 individuals, by one-on-one interviews with a standard questionnaire including demographic characteristics, health status, asbestos exposure history, and awareness of asbestos exposure. The levels of psychosocial stress were measured through the Psychosocial Wellbeing Index-Short Form(PWI-SF). Multivariate logistic regression was conducted using psychosocial stress as a dependent variable. Demographic characteristics, health status, asbestos exposure history, and asbestos exposure awareness were examined as independent variable.
RESULTS
The average PWI-SF score was 17.5 +/- 8.0, with 40 people (13.5%) in the high-risk stress group (PWI-SF 27 points or more). The group having an asbestos-related occupational history had a 2.53 times higher proportion of psychosocial stress (95% CI: 1.03~6.21). The group recognizing asbestos exposure had an even higher proportion of high psychosocial stress group (4.84 times, 95% CI: 1.41~16.55).
CONCLUSIONS
The incidence of psychosocial stress is significantly higher in residents near asbestos mines having an asbestos-related occupational history who recognize their frequent asbestos exposure. Therefore, mental health is affected by the awareness of environmental asbestos exposure as well as an occupational exposure to asbestos.

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Original Article

The Prevalence of Asbestos Related Pleural Plaque among Residents Living Near Asbestos Mines in Korea: Yong Jin Lee, Chan Ho Park, Yong Bae Kim, Eun Chul Jang, Seung Hwan Kim, Young Sik Shin, Jeung Sook Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(1):1-10. Published online March 31, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.1.1

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The investigation of the prevalence of pleural diseases in regards to those living within 1 km of 14 asbestos mines in Chungnam province.
METHODS
We enrolled 4,057 residents (male: 1,887, female: 2,170) living within 1km of asbestos mines in Chungcheong province. They received checkups from Soonchunhyang Environmental Health Center for asbestos related diseases between March 2009 and December 2009. Chest X-rays were taken from all subjects and read by two experts according to International Labor Organization guidelines. Those subjects suspected of asbestos related lesions were further checked with HRCT(high-resolution computed tomography). The determination was done by two experts after reviewing the resulting data.
RESULTS
The 4,057 exposed residents underwent the checkup, 859 of whom further underwent the HRCT(high-resolution computed tomography) check. The prevalence of pleural plaque was found to be 11.3% (29.2% non-occupational, 8.0% occupational) from the chest X-rays. The HRCT(high-resolution computed tomography) results revealed that 227 subjects (26.4%) out of the 859 positive subjects (110 (18.8%) non-occupational, 117 (42.9%) occupational) showed evidence of pleural plaque. The statistical analysis showed that the prevalence of pleural plaque increased with increases in age, residence time, and occupational family exposure to asbestos (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
We recommend better control of asbestos in the soil and mines. We also recommend that all affected residents living near asbestos mines receive medical checkups as mandated by the asbestos health damage relief policy.

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Incidence of Cancer and Asbestos-Related Diseases among Residents Living near Abandoned Asbestos Mines in South Korea: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using National Health Insurance Database
Kyeongmin Kwak, Kyung Ehi Zoh, Domyung Paek
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(3): 875. CrossRef
Exposure Assessment and Asbestosis Pulmonum among Inhabitants near Abandoned Asbestos Mines Using Deposited Dust
Hoki Ahn, Wonho Yang, Young Hwangbo, Yong Jin Lee
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2015; 41(6): 369. CrossRef

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Review

Occupational Cancer Update: Yeon Soon Ahn; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(3):235-252. Published online September 30, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.3.235

Abstract PDF

This article reviews newly available knowledge regarding occupational cancer based on an assessment of International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monograph program from 2006 to 2010. The IARC reviewed the agents to evaluate the carcinogenicity in humans according to their priority. During the last five years, the IARC has reviewed many kinds of agents, including all of the Group 1 carcinogenic agents. Agents belonging to groups other than Group 1 were also reviewed. A few agents, such as shiftwork and firefighting, were reviewed for the first time after introducing the IARC Monograph Program. Most of the reassessed Group 1 agents were reaffirmed, showing that there was sufficient evidence to prove their carcinogenicity to human beings. However, some carcinogens were correlated to the new cancer site, since it was deemed that sufficient evidence was present. For example, larynx and ovary cancer deemed to have sufficient evidence of carciongenicity relating to asbestos exposure, joining lung cancer and mesothelioma. Some agents, such as benzo(a)pyrene, ortho-toluidine, 1,3-butadiene, and others belonging to Group 2A were upgraded to Group 1 based on newly identified epidemiologic findings, along with sufficient animal and mechanistic evidence. Benzo(a)pyrene and benzidine-based dyes were classified as human carcinogens based on sufficient animal and pervasive mechanistic evidence. This new data shows that not only chemical agents but also working conditions, such as stress and shiftwork were found to apply to human carcinogenicity. The IARC listed these agents in order to prioritize their review regarding their carcinogenicity to humans. There is a great need to study these newly emerging agents suspected to relate human carcinogenicity, and deem they are worthy of notice.

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Sound Absorbing Properties of Selected Green Material—A Review
Eun-Suk Jang
Forests.2023; 14(7): 1366. CrossRef
Hazardous Gas Analysis during Fire Investigation
Dong-Hun Han, Sin-Woong Choi, So Yun Lee
Fire Science and Engineering.2020; 34(6): 94. CrossRef
Occupational cancer claims in Korea from 2010 to 2016
Kyungjoon Lee, Sujin Lee, Jeehee Min, Inah Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Compensation for Occupational Cancer
Inah Kim, Eun-A Kim, Jae Young Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2014; 29(Suppl): S40. CrossRef

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Original Article

Respiratory Symptoms, Pulmonary Function Tests, and Asbestos Related Chest Radiograph Abnormalities of Former Asbestos Textile Factory Workers: Hyunsook Bae, Dongmug Kang, Youngki Kim, Jongeun Kim, Yunseong Kim, Kun Il Kim, Kunhyung Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(4):331-344. Published online December 31, 2010; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.4.331

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, asbestos-related chest radiograph abnormalities and abnormal pulmonary function tests among former asbestos textile factory workers and to reveal the related factors of these abnormal findings.
METHODS
There were 119 persons former asbestos textile industry workers registered in the health management pocketbook. Of 97 retired asbestos workers living in Busan, Yangsan and Gimhae, 63(64.9%) retired asbestos workers were enrolled into this study. The researchers administered questionnaires, and performed chest radiographys, and pulmonary function tests (PFT) on participants. The survey was conducted during July, 2009.
RESULTS
Among former workers the number of lung fibrosis, pleural plaque, pleural calcification, and pleural thickening was 13(20.6%), 6(9.5%), 3(4.8%), and 1(1.6%) in chest radiography, respectively. Asbestos-related disorders and abnormal pulmonary function test groups had higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Participants with crocidolite exposure or long latency period had higher asbestos-related x-ray findings or abnormal PFT findings.
CONCLUSIONS
Former asbestos textile workers had a high rate of asbestos-related disorders. Workers with crocidolite exposure or having had a longer latency period had more asbestos-related disorders. Because gradual increase of asbestos related disorders among high asbestos exposure group is expected, sustained, and intensive management is needed for these former workers.

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Asbestos exposure and autoantibody titers
Eunsoo Lee, Youngki Kim, Se Yeong Kim, Dongmug Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2020;[Epub] CrossRef
Ovarian cancer in a former asbestos textile factory worker: a case report
Sunwook Park, Jaechan Park, Eunsoo Lee, Huisu Eom, Mu Young Shin, Jungwon Kim, Dongmug Kang, Sanggil Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef
Environmental health centers for asbestos and their health impact surveys and activities
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Yong-Jin Lee, Hyun-Hee Lee, Chang-yeol Lee, Seong-Jae Moon, Min-Sung Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef

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Case Report

A Case Study of a Foundry Worker with Localized Asbestosis: an Uncommon Occurrence in Korea: Tae Woo Kim, Dong Hee Koh, Min Gi Kim, Seung Won Yoo, Hyang Woo Ryu, Jeong Hee Han, Soon Hee Jung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(2):201-208. Published online June 30, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.2.201

Abstract PDF

BACKGROUND
Foundry workers are known to be exposed to silica and have an increased risk of silicosis. There are also reports that state these foundry workers were associated with asbestos-related change in the X-ray results of the lungs. This report discusses a case of localized asbestosis developed in a foundry worker who worked in 12 Korean foundries.
CASE
REPORT: A 49-year-old man who worked at molding and melting for 30 years, presented with sore throat, cough and yellow sputum for 1 month. From physical and clinical examination, pulmonary tuberculosis was highly suspicious; therefore, he was medicated for 6 months. After tuberculosis medication, the radiological finding was reactivation of tuberculosis, and an asbestos body was detected at a transbronchial lung biopsy. During an operation, operators found multiple palpable masses and bullae localized in the right upper lobe (RUL) and performed right upper lobectomy and right middle lobe wedge resection. Using hematoxylin-eosin stain and iron stain, we could detect asbestos bodies by light microscopy. We analyzed the asbestos fiber burden in dry lung tissue by transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (TEM-EDX). The fiber type was chrysotile and the fiber burden was 23.26x106 fiber/g dry lung.
DISCUSSION
This case study of a foundry worker with localized asbestosis is uncommon in Korea. We found an occupational relationship between the foundry worker and localized asbestosis through various investigative techniques such as measurements taken at his working environment, clinical, radiological and pathological examination of the foundry worker and mineralogical examination of the asbestos fiber.

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Sustainable management of hazardous asbestos-containing materials: Containment, stabilization and inertization
Shiv Bolan, Leela Kempton, Timothy McCarthy, Hasintha Wijesekara, Udara Piyathilake, Tahereh Jasemizad, Lokesh P. Padhye, Tao Zhang, Jörg Rinklebe, Hailong Wang, M.B. Kirkham, Kadambot H.M. Siddique, Nanthi Bolan
Science of The Total Environment.2023; 881: 163456. CrossRef

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Original Article

The Prevalence of Asbestos Exposure-induced Pleural Thickening on Chest Radiograph in Repairing Shipyard Workers: Byeong Jin Ye, Jung Il Kim, Hyun Jae Lee, Ki Nam Kim, Ki Nam Lee, Kap Yeol Jung, Joon Youn Kim, Sung Ho Yun; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(1):9-14. Published online March 31, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.1.9

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated the prevalence of asbestos exposure-induced pleural thickening on chest radiograph in repairing shipyard workers.
METHODS
A total of 2,114 incumbent and retired workers in a shipyard underwent chest radiograph, questionnaire study, interview, and physical exam from 2005 to 2007. Finally, 1,702 workers were selected and classified into two groups according to asbestos exposure: exposure and non-exposure groups. The characteristics in the exposure group were investigated.
RESULTS
The prevalence of pleural thickening on chest radiograph was 5.2 % and 3.1 % in the exposure and non-exposure groups, respectively (p<0.05). In those aged 50 years or above, the prevalence was 17.6 % and 8.7 % in the exposure and non-exposure groups, respectively (p<0.05). The prevalence was 16.5 % and 30.2 % and the odds ratio was 2.34 (95% CI; 1.15-4.77) and 2.95 (95%CI; 1.08-8.07) in the workers with an exposure duration of 20-29 years and more than 30 years, respectively. The prevalence was higher when considering tuberculosis history.
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence was increased with increasing exposure duration was more than 20 years. The authors therefore suggest that this group should be followed up periodically by special program and that a longitudinal study with repairing shipyard workers as the cohort should be undertaken.

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Environmental health centers for asbestos and their health impact surveys and activities
Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Yong-Jin Lee, Hyun-Hee Lee, Chang-yeol Lee, Seong-Jae Moon, Min-Sung Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
Health Effects of Environmental Asbestos Exposure
Dong-Mug Kang
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2009; 35(2): 71. CrossRef

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Original Article

Imaging Findings among Retired Workers Who Were Long-term Exposed to Asbestos : Lung and Pleural Diseases Prevalence on Chest Radiograph and HRCT: Ki Nam Kim, Jung Il Kim, Ki Nam Lee, Kap Yeol Jung, Joon Youn Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2006;18(2):87-93. Published online June 30, 2006; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2006.18.2.87

Abstract PDF

PURPOSE
To determine imaging findings among retired workers who were long-term exposed to asbestos. Lung and pleural diseases prevalence were studied on chest radiograph and HRCT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen workers who were long-term exposedto asbestos occupationally in shipyards were examined by chest radiographs (PA and lateral view) and HRCT (high-resolution computed tomography).
RESULTS
In 12 of 18 subjects (66.7%), asbestos-related pleural abnormalities were evident in diaphragmatic, lateral chest wall and costophrenic angle of the pleura on chest radiographs. The thickness of pleural plaques at the lateral chest wall varied. Diffuse pleural thickening was evident in 2 workers. Parenchymal abnormalities were not found on chest radiographs. On HRCT, pleural thickening wasobserved in 16 of 18 subjects (88.9%), in the areas of juxtavertebral, diaphragmatic, anterior, lateral, mediastinal and fissural pleura. Curvilinear subpleural lines representing early parenchymal asbestosis were found in the lower posterior lung in three of 18 subjects (16.7%).
CONCLUSIONS
In long term asbestos-exposed workers, the asbestos-related pleural disease was 66.7% on chest radiographs and 88.9% on HRCT. The authors suggest that this group should be followed up periodically

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Compensation and Diagnosis of Asbestos Related Disease
Soo-Geun Kim
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2009; 30(5): 335. CrossRef

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Original Article

Usefulness of High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) in the Diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases: Hyun Jae Lee, Ji Eun Son, Young Seoub Hong, Young Ill Lee, Byung Jin Yeah, Chang Hun You, Kap Yeol Jung, Sang Hoon Kim, Hyoung June Im, Eun Chul Jang, Jung Man Kim, Joon Youn Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2006;18(2):112-122. Published online June 30, 2006; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2006.18.2.112

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
This study was carried out to improve the medical surveillance program of workers exposed to asbestos by examining the usefulness of High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) in the diagnosis of asbestos-related lung disease.
METHODS
The study subjects comprised 162 workers in a ship-repairing yard, 68 of whom had been directly exposed to asbestos and 94 indirectly exposed. The 'Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) asbestos standard, medical surveillance program' and HRCT were conducted to analyze the aspects of the asbestos-related lung disease. The OSHA asbestos standard, medical surveillance program consists of simple chest x-ray, spirometry and medical questionnaire.
RESULTS
Seventeen (10.5%) of the 162 subjects, 10 (14.7%) directly exposed and 7 (7.4%) indirectly exposed, revealed asbestos-related lung disease on HRCT. The sensitivity and specificity of simple chest x-ray for asbestos-related lung disease were 70.6% and 98.6%, and the positive and negative predictive values were 85.7% and 96.6% respectively, as compared with HRCT. HRCT was an effective diagnostic tool especially to detect early asbestos-related lung disease. The study results indicated a relative significant association between the results of spirometry and HRCT. The variables significantly associated with asbestos-related lung disease on HRCT were work duration, smoking history (pack-years), past history of respiratory disease, cough and dyspnea.
CONCLUSIONS
In the diagnosis of asbestos-related lung disease, HRCT should be considered not only for workers with positive findings on simple chest x-ray, but also workers with specific findings on spirometry, occupational history, smoking history, and past history of respiratory disease, or with respiratory symptoms such as cough and dyspnea.

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Radiologic Diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Yoon Kyung Kim, Jeung Sook Kim, Yookyung Kim
Journal of the Korean Society of Radiology.2015; 73(6): 347. CrossRef

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Case Report

A Case of Lung Cancer Caused by Long-Term Asbestos Exposure: Dong Young Yoon, Jin Wook Kang, Hyun Jae Lee, Jung Il Kim, Ji Eun Son, Kap Yeol Jung, Joon Youn Kim, Mee Sook Roh; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2004;16(4):499-507. Published online December 31, 2004; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2004.16.4.499

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
To report a case of lung cancer caused by long-term asbestos exposure in a shipyard.
METHODS
We evaluated chest X-ray, pulmonary function test, and chest CT and analyzed asbestos concentration in the lung tissue and bulk sample from the workplace. We also performed a workplace survey.
RESULTS
The patient had worked at the shipyard for 31 years. The biopsy samples were processed to determine the asbestos content in the lung tissue and bulk sample using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDX). The TEM-EDX analysis revealed many asbestos fibers, the majority of which were amosite. In addition, the concentration asbestos fibers in the workplace exceeded the occupational exposure limits of asbestos.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings strongly suggest that this patient's lung cancer was related to the long-term asbestos exposure.

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Gastric and rectal cancers in workers exposed to asbestos: a case series
Byeong Ju Choi, Saerom Lee, Iu Jin Lee, Soon Woo Park, Sanggil Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2020;[Epub] CrossRef
Radiologic Diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Yoon Kyung Kim, Jeung Sook Kim, Yookyung Kim
Journal of the Korean Society of Radiology.2015; 73(6): 347. CrossRef
Comparison of cancer incidence between production and office workers at a shipyard in Korea: A retrospective cohort study from 1992 to 2005
Kyoung‐Sook Jeong, Yangho Kim, Moon‐Chan Kim, Cheol‐In Yoo
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2011; 54(9): 719. CrossRef
Occupational Respiratory Cancer in Korea
Hye-Eun Lee, Hyoung Ryoul Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S94. CrossRef

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Case Report

A case of asbestosis: Young Su Lee, Tae Won Jang, Ho Dae Yu, Maan Hong Jung, Yong Hwan Lee, Ji Young Suh, Bang Hur, Jae Sung Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(1):119-124. Published online March 31, 1999; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.1.119

Abstract PDF: Asbestosis is the disease of pulmonary fibrosis caused by the inhaled asbestos fibers, and could be diagnosed clinically, in the case of exposure history to asbestos is proved, by clinical symptoms of dyspnea or dry cough, physical examination findings, and the radiographic features. But many other inorganic dusts would show similar findings in the chest radiogram and sometimes the exposure history is obscure, so for the exact diagnosis of asbestosis lung biopsy is needed. In Korea, there have been some reports of survey in the workplace where asbestos is handled or of asbestos related diseases. This is a case report of asbestosis with accompanying pleural plaques, who had the occupational exposure to asbestos for 30 years and the consistent clinical, radiographic and pathological findings in the lung tissue obtained by the videoscope assisted thoracoscopic biopsy(VATS).

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Original Article

Cytotoxicity and Apoptosis by Silica, Asbestos and Man-Made Mineral Fibers: Young Lim, Kyoung Ah Kim, Heung Nam Kim, Dong Won Lee, Won Seop Cho, Im Goung Yun; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):641-649. Published online December 31, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.641

Abstract PDF

Exposure to various particles and fibers can result in lung inflammation that may progress to fibrosis, even lung cancer for which there is no effective clinical treatment now. The mechanism involved in pulmonary injury has not been well defined ; however, most current evidence implicates a central role for alveolar macrophages (AM) in this process. Also apoptosis or programmed cell death is regarded as a mechanism which is related with the pulmonary fibrosis. We propose that the cytotoxic potential of various particles may be evaluated by measuring lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) from particle co-cultured supernatant and theses particles may induce the characteristics of apoptosis, DNA ladder. We analyzed rat AM culture media which was incubated for 3 days with the same concentration (10 ug/ml) of silica(Si), chrysotile(Ch), crocidolite(Cr), ceramic fiber(CF), rock wool(RW) and glass wool (GW). And each particles (50ug/cm(2)) was incubated with A549 (pneumocyte in tracheal epithelium) cell lines for 24 hours to confirm the DNA ladder. Additionally, silica induced apoptosis in vivo was confirmed by electromicroscopic observation. The results were as follows; 1. Silica, asbestos and man-made mineral fibers (MMMF) co-cultured with AM showed the increase of LDH significantly with the time interval of 24, 48, 72 hours except for ceramic fiber in 48 and 72 hours and crocidolite in 72 hours. 2. Silica, asbestos and man-made mineral fibers (CF, GF) showed the characteristics of apoptosis, DNA ladder, which was induced by incubating A549 cell with each particles for 24 hours in vitro 3. Apoptotic alveolar macrophage was observed the findings of zeiosis (membrane blebbing), condensation of nuclear chromosome and many vacuoles in cytoplasm, electomicroscopically.

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Occupational Cancers with Chemical Exposure and their Prevention in Korea: A Literature Review
Kyung-Taek Rim
Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention.2013; 14(6): 3379. CrossRef
The Effects of Air-borne Particulate Matters on the Alveolar Macrophages for the TNF-α and IL-1β Secretion
Tian Zhu Li, Soo-Jin Lee, Se-Jong Park, Byung-Joon Chang, Jong-Hwan Lee, Kil-Soo Kim, Myoung-Heon Lee, Nong-Hoon Choe
Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases.2006; 60(5): 554. CrossRef

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Original Article

Prevalence of Asbestosis in Korean Asbestos Industry: Do myung Paek, Nam Won Paik, Jung Deun Choi, Mi A Son, Jung Gi Im, Won Jin Lee, Young Hahn Moon, Jung Sun Park, Byung Soon Choi; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1995;7(1):46-57. Published online February 28, 1995; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1995.7.1.46

Abstract PDF

Asbestos industry has been in operation over 60 years in Korea. However, the prevalence of asbestosis has not been yet reported. With rapid turn-over of workers, previous cross-sectional studies of current workers on the job could not find cases with exposures long enough for the development of asbestosis. This study was done to evaluate asbestosis prevalence of those worksites with operation history of more than 20 years. In total, 139 workers from 5 worksites were examined. Asbestos industries covered in the study include 2 asbestos textile, 1 brake lining, and 2 ship repairing worksites. Chest x-ray was taken from all workers and read by two exports familiar with pneumoconiosis classification according to 1980 ILO guidelines. Those with findings compatible with asbestosis were further checked with high resolution computerized tomography (HRCT). Pulmonary function tests were done according to ATS guidelines, and occupational and previous medical history was taken through a standardized interview. Air-borne asbestos was measured according to NI0SH method 7400. The air-borno asbestos concentrations ranged from 0.2-1.3 f/cc for asbestos textile, from 0.7~l.0 f/cc for brake lining, and from 6.3-7.8 f/cc during asbestos removal at ship repairing worksite. Of the 139 workers 25 had abnormal chest radiographic findings, and 10 of them had findings compatible with pneumoconiosis. When work history and current asbestos measurements were accounted, 9 workers who had more than 10 years of asbestos exposure history showed chest radiographic findings of pneumoconiosis with Finally, 4 workers showed finding of pulmonary fibrosis and/or pleural thickening at HRCT, and 2 of them had restrictive lung function changes. The study results showed that, among 139 sutjects, there were 4 (3%) definite asbeatosis cases confirmed with HRCT. The prevalence of probable asbestosis was 7% for 10-14 years of exposure, 13% for 15-19 years of exposure, and 23% for 20 or more years of exposure. The prevalence of compensable asbestosis with abnormal lung function was 4-6% for those with 15 or more years of exposure.

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Sustainable management of hazardous asbestos-containing materials: Containment, stabilization and inertization
Shiv Bolan, Leela Kempton, Timothy McCarthy, Hasintha Wijesekara, Udara Piyathilake, Tahereh Jasemizad, Lokesh P. Padhye, Tao Zhang, Jörg Rinklebe, Hailong Wang, M.B. Kirkham, Kadambot H.M. Siddique, Nanthi Bolan
Science of The Total Environment.2023; 881: 163456. CrossRef
Asbestos Exposure Level and the Carcinogenic Risk Due to Corrugated Asbestos-Cement Slate Roofs in Korea
Eun-Soo Lee, Young-Ki Kim
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(13): 6925. CrossRef
Gastric and rectal cancers in workers exposed to asbestos: a case series
Byeong Ju Choi, Saerom Lee, Iu Jin Lee, Soon Woo Park, Sanggil Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2020;[Epub] CrossRef
The Asbestos Ban in Korea from a Grassroots Perspective: Why Did It Occur?
Yu-Ryong Yoon, Kyeong Kwak, Yeyong Choi, Kanwoo Youn, Jinwook Bahk, Dong-Mug Kang, Domyung Paek
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2018; 15(2): 198. CrossRef
A decade of malignant mesothelioma surveillance in Korea
Soon‐Hee Jung, Hyoung‐Ryoul Kim, Sang‐Baek Koh, Suk‐Joong Yong, Myoung Ja Chung, Chang‐Hun Lee, Joungho Han, Min‐Seob Eom, Sung‐Soo Oh
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2012; 55(10): 869. CrossRef
Comparison of cancer incidence between production and office workers at a shipyard in Korea: A retrospective cohort study from 1992 to 2005
Kyoung‐Sook Jeong, Yangho Kim, Moon‐Chan Kim, Cheol‐In Yoo
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2011; 54(9): 719. CrossRef
Occupational and Environmental Asbestos Exposure in Korea
Jung-Wan Koo, Hyoung Ryoul Kim
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2009; 52(5): 442. CrossRef
Overview of Asbestos Issues in Korea
Hyoung Ryoul Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2009; 24(3): 363. CrossRef
Compensation and Diagnosis of Asbestos Related Disease
Soo-Geun Kim
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2009; 30(5): 335. CrossRef
Asbestos-related Diseases among Asbestos Textile Factory Workers and Residents Around the Factory
Dong-Mug Kang, Dong-Chul Gu, Kun-Hyung Kim
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2009; 52(5): 482. CrossRef
Asbestos Problems Yet to Explode in Korea
Domyung Paek
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health.2003; 9(3): 266. CrossRef
The Effect of Silica Dust on Ventilatory Function of Foundry Workers
Jung Wan Koo, Chee Kyung Chung, Chung Yill Park, Se‐Hoon Lee, Kang‐Sook Lee, Young‐Man Roh, Hyeon Woo Yim
Journal of Occupational Health.2000; 42(5): 251. CrossRef
Asbestos and non-asbestos fiber content in lungs of Korean subjects with no known occupational asbestos exposure history
Je Yu, Young Hahn Moon, Kiyoshi Sakai, Naomi Hisanaga, Jung Duck Park, Yasuhiro Takeuchi
Environment International.1998; 24(3): 293. CrossRef

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