Raising Awareness of Occupational Exposure to Cancer-Causing Chemicals
The GMB Congress 2024 was a significant event for Fight Bladder Cancer, where we had a dedicated booth to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by bladder cancer due to occupational exposure to cancer-causing chemicals
Our information stall was led by Dorothy Markham, a bladder cancer patient and one of our Trustees; Don McClymont, a carer and volunteer; Andie Miles, a bladder cancer patient; and Nicola Turner, a bladder cancer patient.
Successful Engagement and Outreach
Our information stall at the GMB Congress was well-received. We connected with many new contacts and reconnected with visitors from last year. The footfall and interest in our materials were encouraging. We gathered names of individuals willing to promote bladder cancer awareness at their workplaces, broadening our reach. Our toilet door posters were popular, with many GMB representatives taking them back to their branches and more requesting copies for distribution in the weeks following.
Personal Stories and New Initiatives
Many visitors shared personal stories about their experiences with bladder cancer, often quite harrowing, underscoring the importance of our work. Throughout the event, we gathered photos of delegates holding our cancer support boards. One particularly notable interaction was with a visitor who had been at our stand last year. He shared that his father had been diagnosed with bladder cancer, and he had since been raising awareness at his workplace. He planned to take a large quantity of our materials back to his training sessions.
Survey Results
We conducted a survey during the congress. Three quarters of congress attendees had previously heard of bladder cancer, with awareness primarily coming from media and healthcare professionals. One quarter of bladder cancer patients surveyed at the congress were working in manufacturing at the time of diagnosis.
Had you ever heard of bladder cancer before?
• Yes: 74%
• No: 26%
How did you become aware of bladder cancer?
• Media (news articles): 19%
• Other: 19%
• Healthcare professional (nurse): 14%
• Personal experience (family member): 14%
• Personal experience (friend): 14%
• Charity or patient organisation: 12%
What area of work were you (or your affected family member) employed in at the time of diagnosis?
• Manufacturing: 25%
• Healthcare: 13%
• Office/Administrative: 12%
• Unemployed/Retired: 12%
• Other: 38%
Bladder Cancer – An Industrial Hazard
Bladder cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, but certain occupations significantly increase the risk due to exposure to carcinogens. Nearly 49% of bladder cancer cases could be prevented by avoiding these harmful exposures. Workers in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, and even service roles like hairdressing and cleaning are at higher risk.
Occupations at Risk
Workers in the following occupations are more susceptible to bladder cancer:
• Tobacco, dye, leather, rubber, metal workers
• Factory and chemical workers
• Oil and petroleum workers
• Hairdressers
• Printers and painters
• Leather workers
• Nurses
• Cleaners and domestic assistants
• Gardeners
• Waiters
• Electricians and mechanics
• Seafarers
Steps to Protect Yourself
If you work in any of these high-risk occupations, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect yourself:
1. Talk to your employer: Discuss the risks associated with your job and raise awareness about bladder cancer.
2. Request a risk assessment: Ensure your workplace conducts a thorough risk assessment to identify and mitigate hazards.
3. Use personal protective equipment (PPE): Make sure you have access to and use appropriate PPE.
4. Engage with your union: Seek guidance and support from your union representative.
Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis
If you are diagnosed with bladder cancer, here are some important steps to take:
1. Be kind to yourself: Prioritise self-care and seek emotional support.
2. Engage your line manager: Communicate openly with your employer about your diagnosis and treatment needs.
3. Share your experience: Talk to colleagues about your journey to foster understanding and support.
4. Seek support: Connect with support groups, charities, and other resources.
5. Focus on the future: Stay positive and focused on recovery and future goals.
Important Questions to Discuss with Your Employer
During your cancer journey, have open discussions with your employer about:
• Salary continuation during treatment
• Sick pay provisions
• Impact on your pension
Protection Against Discrimination
In the UK, individuals with a cancer diagnosis are protected against discrimination under the Equality Act 2010. This protection is lifelong and covers all aspects of employment, ensuring fair treatment.
References
1. Noon, Aidan P., et al. “Occupation and bladder cancer phenotype: identification of workplace patterns that increase the risk of advanced disease beyond overall incidence.” European Urology Focus 4.5 (2018): 725-730.
2. Brown, Katrina F., et al. “The fraction of cancer attributable to modifiable risk factors in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the United Kingdom in 2015.” British Journal of Cancer 118.8 (2018): 1130-1141.
Letter from Dorothy, Trustee and Bladder Cancer Patient, Fight Bladder Cancer:
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Dear GMB Colleagues,
As we gather at the 2024 GMB Congress, I am pleased to reaffirm our partnership.
Since our last congress, our initiatives have gained momentum, including campaigns aimed at elevating the understanding of the occupational risks associated with bladder cancer. Another advancement following our fringe meeting at the GMB Congress 2023 is the establishment by the GMB legal department of a Register to monitor the incidence of bladder cancer and its relation to the workplace environment. This allows us to offer support to patients and their families, and pursue any claims that arise from occupational exposures.
We appreciate the GMB Union’s ongoing commitment, demonstrated through the 2019 Congress Motion to intensify our collaborations with the Health and Safety Executive.
Fight Bladder Cancer remains dedicated as the UK’s patient and carer-led specialist charity. With over 19,000 new cases diagnosed annually, our mission is more crucial than ever.
Despite being one of the most common cancers, bladder cancer still faces significant challenges in terms of public awareness, research funding, and treatment costs. Empowering GMB Members Our resources are tailored to support your members effectively:
• Workplace Awareness Posters to educate about the early signs of bladder cancer
• GP Surgery Poster Packs are available upon request to promote awareness
• Educational Leaflets Specifically designed for workers in high-risk occupations
• Online Support Forum and Virtual Groups for shared experiences and support
Together, we aim to secure a safer work environment and ensure all workers have access to the information and support they need. Thank you for your continued support and commitment. Let us work hand in hand for the health and safety of all GMB members.
Warm regards,
Dorothy Markham
Trustee and Bladder Cancer Patient
Fight Bladder Cancer.
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