Plastics, particularly those made with vinyl chloride, have been identified as a significant source of exposure to carcinogenic chemicals. Vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen, is used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), one of the most commonly manufactured plastics in the world. PVC is used in a wide variety of products, including packaging, pipes, automotive parts, construction materials, and furniture. Exposure to vinyl chloride has been associated with an increased risk of liver cancer, particularly the rare, sentinel neoplasm of liver angiosarcoma (LAS), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
PVC Production and Exposure
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most widely used plastics, and its production involves the use of vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen. During the manufacturing process, workers can be exposed to vinyl chloride, which has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, particularly the rare form known as liver angiosarcoma (LAS) and the more common hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Liver Cancer Risks
Exposure to vinyl chloride has been associated with an increased risk of two types of liver cancer: liver angiosarcoma (LAS) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). LAS is a rare form of liver cancer that is considered a sentinel neoplasm, meaning it is an early indicator of exposure to vinyl chloride. HCC, on the other hand, is a more common form of liver cancer that has also been linked to vinyl chloride exposure.