Cancer
Cancer from aluminum production
Apr
Cancer from aluminum production refers to types of cancer caused by exposure to substances during the aluminum manufacturing process. Individuals frequently in contact with chemicals chemicals used in aluminum production, such as silica, bauxite, cyanide, fluoride, lead, nickel, and asbestos, are at risk of developing cancers including lung cancer, urethral cancer, skin cancer, stomach cancer, bronchial cancer, colon cancer, peritoneal cancer, and cervical cancer. However, the development of these cancers depends on exposure level, duration, intensity, and protective measures taken by workers.
1. What is Aluminum?
- Aluminum is a lightweight, silver-colored metal with high durability, widely used in industrial and commercial applications. With low density, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, aluminum is used for household items, shipbuilding, automotive, aerospace, construction materials, jewelry, and food containers.
- Aluminum is one of the most abundant metals on Earth, making up about 8% of the Earth’s crust. It is extracted from bauxite ore found in regions with red soil, limestone, and clay.
- Aluminum is relatively durable, corrosion-resistant in atmospheric conditions, non-toxic, and recyclable, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly material for production and various applications.
2. How is Aluminum Produced?
The aluminum production process includes the following main steps:
- Bauxite mining: Bauxite is the primary raw material for aluminum production. Mining involves excavation, crushing, processing, and transport to the plant.
- Bauxite processing: Bauxite is heated with an alkaline solution to separate aluminum compounds from impurities, known as the Bayer process.
- Alumina separation: Aluminum compounds are purified by heating with aluminum hydroxide at high temperatures, called the refining process.
- Aluminum granulation: Purified aluminum is formed into granules by spraying into animal fat and rapidly cooling.
- Melting aluminum granules: Aluminum granules are melted in a furnace to form molten aluminum.
- Aluminum refining: Molten aluminum is refined to remove remaining impurities.
- Forming pure aluminum: Aluminum is poured into molds and cooled to form pure aluminum.
- Cutting, processing, and manufacturing aluminum products: Pure aluminum is cut, processed, and manufactured into sheets, tubes, electronic components, and other products.
The above is a general aluminum production process; individual factories may adapt the process to match modern technology and techniques.
3. Causes of Cancer from Aluminum Production
Aluminum production may increase cancer risk due to exposure to chemical compounds such as bauxite, cyanide, fluoride, and aluminum hydroxide. These compounds can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin or eyes. Long-term exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, lung cancer, liver cancer, and other health problems.
Additionally, aluminum production may release toxic substances such as benzene, formaldehyde, and dioxins, which also pose cancer risks to workers. Therefore, safety measures and health protection are crucial for aluminum industry workers.
4. Types of Cancer from Aluminum Production
Types of cancer from aluminum production include:
- Lung cancer: The main cause is exposure to metal fumes and dust emitted during production, creating a heavily polluted environment in factories and surrounding areas.
- Liver cancer: May be linked to toxic chemicals used in aluminum production, such as hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and organic compounds.
- Breast cancer: Some studies suggest aluminum exposure can cause breast cancer, as aluminum is used in antiperspirants, dyes, and skin creams.
- Kidney cancer: May be related to exposure to hazardous chemicals such as chlorine compounds, hydrocarbons, benzene, and cyanide during production.
5. Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer from Aluminum Production
Diagnosis and treatment depend on the specific case and disease progression. Common methods include:
Diagnosis:
- Clinical examination: Doctors conduct general check-ups and tests to identify symptoms and abnormalities.
- Ultrasound and X-ray: Imaging techniques to locate and measure tumors.
- CT or MRI scans: Advanced imaging for accurate tumor assessment.
- Blood tests: Detect substances in the blood indicating tumor presence or cancer.
Treatment:
- Surgery: Primary method to remove tumors or affected tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, used before or after surgery or as an alternative.
- X-ray and radiation therapy: Kill cancer cells.
- Supportive treatment: Symptom management and complementary care to aid primary treatment.
- Follow-up: Monitoring after treatment ensures no recurrence and symptom management.
6. Policies Supporting Aluminum-Related Cancer Patients
In Vietnam, several policies support aluminum-related cancer patients, implemented by the government and NGOs:
- Health insurance: Covers treatment costs, medications, and care for affected workers and their families.
- Financial support: Government policies provide financial assistance for treatment, healthcare, and reduced medication costs.
- Inspection and oversight: Government agencies monitor aluminum production companies to ensure compliance with safety regulations and reduce cancer risks.
- Training and consultation: Programs educate hospitals and medical staff on managing cancer cases from aluminum exposure.
- Research and development: Vietnamese health and science organizations study causes and treatments to improve future diagnosis and care.
7. Measures to Improve Work Environment and Prevent Cancer
Measures include:
- Using personal protective equipment: Masks, gloves, gowns, and goggles to prevent direct contact with hazardous substances.
- Providing complete information on causes and consequences of aluminum-related cancer: Educate staff on symptoms and preventive measures.
- Ensuring proper ventilation, lighting, and temperature in the factory: Creates a safer and more comfortable working environment.
- Regular environmental monitoring of air and water quality: Early detection of hazards and timely corrective action.
- Training employees on occupational safety and hazardous prevention: Enhance ability to handle emergencies and protect health.
8. National Center for Occupational Environmental Monitoring
Nam Viet Occupational Environmental Monitoring Center is a professional unit monitoring and measuring workplace environmental quality across all provinces in Vietnam. With experienced environmental monitoring specialists, the center uses modern equipment ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Besides monitoring services, the center assists clients in planning, handling, and following up on workplace environmental issues. Following the motto “customer-centered,” the center ensures customer satisfaction and delivers optimal solutions.
With investment in technology, equipment, and personnel, Nam Viet’s monitoring center is among the most reputable in Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to:
- Prioritize brand reputation and service quality.
- Provide customers with the best and most suitable services.
- Work with experienced MScs and engineers to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
- Companies working with Nam Viet Monitoring receive professional service from experts and the best cost advantages.
9. Occupational Environmental Monitoring Price List
To help businesses implement professional and effective occupational environmental monitoring, Nam Viet provides a quality and affordable price list for monitoring services.
- The price list provides detailed costs for monitoring services, including transportation, measurement, analysis, and reporting. Clients can trust the accuracy and reliability of the reports.
- Nam Viet ensures competitive and reasonable prices, with prompt and professional consultation.
- The price list allows customers to select suitable service packages, ensuring maximum satisfaction and professional service quality.
