Risk of lung cancer among welders and flame cutters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and AimThe process of flame-cutting and welding is believed to highly hazardous for workers involved in related industries. The study aims to provide a comprehensive quantitative effect of the risk of lung cancer due to exposure to welding fumes. MethodsA systematic review was conducted to extract published estimates of odds ratio of the association of lung cancer and exposure to welding fumes, till 2022. Studies were extracted from the PubMed database with clearly defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies from all parts of the world were considered. A meta-analysis with random effects model was conducted resulting in formation of forest plot, influence analysis, sensitivity analysis and checking for publication bias using a funnel plot. ResultsThe meta-analysis yielded an OR of 1.256 (95% CI 1.055-1.496), with a moderately high heterogeneity between the studies (I2 = 68.78% ;{tau} 2 = 0.039; Q = 36.115(p < 0.001)). The sensitivity and influence analysis confirmed the absence of highly influential studies that may have led to potentially distorted outcomes. The funnel plot showed no evidence of publication bias among the studies included in this analysis. ConclusionAs the association of lung cancer and occupational hazards from exposure to welding fumes is certain, there is a need to control and regulate industrial activities that involve welding and flame cutting. Already, restrictions on safe levels of fume in workplace is in operation.