Cancer mortality in a surveillance cohort of German males formerly exposed to asbestos

The objective of this analysis was the estimation of the cancer risks of asbestos and asbestosis in a surveillance cohort of high-exposed German workers. A group of 576 asbestos workers was selected for high-resolution computer tomography of the chest in 1993-1997. A mortality follow-up was conducted through 2007. standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated and Poisson regression was performed to assess mesothelioma risks. A high risk was observed for pleural mesothelioma (SMR 28.10, 95% Cl 15.73-46.36) that decreased after cessation Of exposure (RR 0.1: 95% Cl 0.0-0.6 for >= 30 vs. < 30 years after last exposure). Asbestosis was a significant risk factor for mesothelioma (RR 6.0, 95% Cl 2.4-14.7). Mesothelioma mortality was still in excess in former asbestos workers although decreasing after cessation of exposure. Fibrosis was associated With subsequent malignancy. (C) 2009 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.