Fiber glass exposure and human respiratory system cancer risk: lack of evidence persists since 2001 IARC re-evaluation

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether IARC's 2001 decision to downgrade the classification of insulation glass wool from Group 2B to Group 3 remains valid in light of epidemiological evidence reported after 2001.

Methods: We performed a systematic review of epidemiological evidence regarding respiratory cancer risks in relation to man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) exposure before and after the 2001 IARC re-evaluation with focus on glass wool exposure and respiratory system cancer.

Results: Since 2001, three new community-based, case-control studies, two detailed analyses of existing cohort studies and two reviews/meta-analyses were published. These studies revealed no consistent evidence of an increased respiratory system cancer risk in relation to glass wool exposure.

Conclusions: From our evaluation of the epidemiological evidence published since 2001, we conclude that IARC's 2001 decision to downgrade insulation glass wool from Group 2B to Group 3 remains valid.