The aim of the study is to investigate exposures to vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) at workplace in Italy and the related burden of diseases. Measurements data was collected from a nation-wide occupational exposure registry (SIREP, 1996-2016). Potentially exposed workers were estimated for some industrial sectors. Concurrent exposures were investigated using cluster analysis. Proportionate mortality ratios were calculated linking data to national mortality statistics (2005-2015). Overall 8,460 measurements were analyzed. Most exposures occurred in the manufacture of chemicals and plastic products. A total of 12,148 workers potentially exposed was estimated (64% male). Concurrent exposures were detected frequently (83%). An elevated proportion of deaths for liver cancer was found in male exposed workers. Although VCM is a known carcinogen for humans, there are still many exposure situations, albeit at low doses, in the chemical and plastic industries.
Keywords: Carcinogenic risk; exposure assessment; occupational health; proportionate mortality ratios; surveillance systems.