Cancer-Specific Mortality Odds Ratios in the Food, Accommodation, and Beverage Activities in Italy

Abstract

Objectives This study investigated cancer-specific mortality risks of workers employed in food, accommodation and beverage (FAB) activities. Methods We performed a case-control study based on countrywide mortality and National Social Insurance data. Adjusted cancer specific mortality odds ratios (MOR) were calculated. We modelled occupational exposure as “ever/never been employed” in FAB activities, using other sectors as reference. Analysis was performed by gender, length of employment and year of smoke banning. Results About 20,000 cancer deaths in FAB were analysed. Working in restaurants was positively associated with cancer of lung (MOR = 1.24), bladder (MOR = 1.24), pharynx, and larynx. Accommodation was associated with cancer of pharynx (MOR = 1.46), while beverage with cancer of liver (MOR = 1.22). Gender, length of employment and smoke banning were found effective in modifying some risks. Conclusions Workers in FAB sectors were at risk for several cancers.