Keyword: cancer

ABSTRACT: Notwithstanding notable advancements in occupational health and safety over the past century, occupational injuries and illnesses occur frequently worldwide. Mining is among the highest-risk occupational environments, exposing workers to acute and chronic health problems. This narrative review explores research evidence of different mining-related hazards, with a special focus on asbestos exposure. Mineworkers more commonly face biological, chemical, physical, ergonomics, and psychological hazards than other industries. Exposure to respiratory particles like silica and coal dust contributes to respiratory diseases like pneumoconiosis, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung diseases. Due to the physically demanding nature of the work and poor ergonomics, the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) occurring in soft tissues and surrounding body structures is high in mineworkers. Despite technological advancement and safety precautions, the mining industry remains a high-risk workplace with disproportionately higher rates of occupational injuries. Routine exposure to carcinogens results in a high risk of stomach and lung cancers. Chrysotile is the most used asbestos in the mining industry, causing asbestosis and mesothelioma. While some countries have introduced regulations to limit or phase out the use of asbestos, asbestos is still used in many countries. Studies are warranted to investigate the immediate and long-term health effects and potential risk factors. Essential preventive measures, consistent enforcement of safety standards, and accessible healthcare are essential to ensure overall well-being.

ABSTRACT: The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cancer, is steadily increasing in Kazakhstan alongside socioeconomic development, highlighting the urgent need for effective national management and control strategies. The Electronic Registry of Oncological Patients (EROP) is a key initiative designed to support this goal by enabling comprehensive surveillance of cancer patients across the country. This review examines the patient journey that informs EROP’s data collection process and explores its potential as a foundation for local cancer epidemiology research. Analysis of the registry reveals extensive coverage of dispensary, outpatient, and inpatient visits, capturing detailed socio-demographic information, diagnoses, treatments, and mortality outcomes. EROP provides valuable insights into cancer morbidity, mortality, and quality of life across spatial and temporal dimensions in Kazakhstan. The review also addresses current limitations and underexplored aspects of the registry, emphasizing the importance of careful interpretation to ensure robust, evidence-based research.