Occupational cancer in Italy: evaluating the extent of compensated cases in the period 1994-2006.

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze occupational cancer claims compensated in the industrial sector in Italy between 1994 and 2006.

Methods: A descriptive analysis of compensated occupational cancers based on the Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL) data was performed. Summary statistics were compiled by sex and age of worker, cancer type, workplace agent and economic sector. The temporal trend in the period 1994-2006 was investigated for the most frequently compensated cancers (mesothelioma and lung cancer from asbestos; nasal cavities cancer from wood and leather dust).

Results: Between 1994 and 2006, 6,243 cancer claims were compensated by INAIL due to occupational exposure in the industrial sector. Most (5,288, or 85%) of these compensated claims occurred in the period 2000-2006, when the annual mean of the most compensated cancers increased approximately four times compared to the period 1994-1999.

Conclusions: There is an increasing trend in compensation for work-related cancers in Italy in recent years, even if occupational cancers are still widely underreported.