Haematite and Iron Oxide (IARC Summary & Evaluation, Volume 1, 1972)

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations

HAEMATITE AND IRON OXIDE

VOL.: 1 (1972) (p. 29)

5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation

5.1 Animal carcinogenicity data

Iron oxide given by inhalation or by intratracheal route has not been found to be carcinogenic in the hamster, the mouse or the guinea-pig.

5.2 Human carcinogenicity data

On the basis of epidemiological evidence, exposure to haematite dust may be regarded as increasing the risk of lung cancer development in man. The risk is manifest in underground workers but not surface workers, and it is not known whether the excess risk is due to radioactivity in the air of mines, the inhalation of iron oxide or silica, or to a combination of these or other factors. There is no evidence that iron-ore dust (haematite) or iron oxide influences the incidence of cancers at sites other than the lungs.

Subsequent evaluation: Suppl. 7 (1987)

Last updated: 12 March 1998





























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