Font size:
Print
Cancer: The Hidden Hazard in India’s Construction Industry
Context:
The construction industry in India is a vital sector, employing over 74 million workers, but it is also one of the most hazardous.
More on News:
- A 2016 study indicated that nearly 25% of the 48,000 annual work-related deaths in India occur within this industry.
- While the risks of physical injuries are well-documented, a growing concern is the association between construction work and cancer.
Occupational Cancer Risks:
- Research from other countries shows that construction workers face a higher risk of cancer due to exposure to various known carcinogens used in the industry.
- Commonly linked cancers include mesothelioma, lung cancer, and cancers of the head, neck, esophagus, and prostate.
- However, limited studies in India focus on how the inherent dangers of construction contribute to cancer risks, often overlooking the role of environmental and occupational exposures.
Health Challenges in Construction:
- In addition to the high mortality rates, construction work is associated with numerous health issues, including musculoskeletal disorders, heat-related illnesses, hearing loss from noise exposure, and respiratory conditions from dust and chemicals.
- Despite existing safety regulations, protective gear is often not mandated or used on construction sites, placing the burden of safety on the workers themselves.
Challenges:
- Most construction workers in India are rural migrants who face numerous challenges in urban settings, including high living costs, discrimination and limited social mobility.
- Many live in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions that exacerbate health risks, including vector-borne diseases and poor mental health.
- Economic pressures often deter them from seeking healthcare, as taking time off work can mean loss of income.
- Barriers to accessing healthcare are significant. Workers report issues such as inconvenient clinic hours, language barriers, and poor treatment from healthcare providers.
Recommendations for Improvement:
- Enforcement of Safety Regulations: Stricter adherence to workplace safety laws is crucial to protect workers from occupational hazards.
- Mobile Health and Screening Programs: Regular health and cancer screening initiatives outside working hours can increase access to preventive care.
- Mental Health Support: Providing mental health resources can help workers cope with the stress of their living and working conditions.
- Localised Health Insurance Schemes: Tailored insurance plans can address the unique needs of construction workers, improving access to healthcare services.
- Community Health Worker Involvement: Community health workers can play a pivotal role in informing workers about health schemes and ensuring their enrollment and utilisation.
Future Outlook:
- As India’s construction industry continues to grow, with projections to employ nearly 100 million workers, the challenges associated with occupational health, including cancer, are expected to escalate.
- Addressing these issues requires urgent attention from policymakers, alongside further research to better understand the relationship between construction work and health outcomes.