DID YOU KNOW?
Bladder cancer is one of the more common cancers. 8,900 Canadians were diagnosed with it in 2017, with nearly three quarters of them male. As cabin crew, we may have been exposed to two known contributing factors at higher frequencies than other people in the general population.
REMEMBER:
- Cabin crew at Canadian air carriers were exposed to second-hand smoke onboard until smoking bans were implemented in the early 1990’s. Cigarette smoke is a known contributor to developing bladder cancer (https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/tobacco-and-cancer/secondhand-smoke.html)
- As travellers, cabin crew may also be exposed to a fresh water-borne parasite schistosomiasis found in tropical regions. This is known to be a contributor for a form of bladder cancer more commonly seen in parts of the world where the parasite lives. (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-related-infectious-diseases/schistosomiasis)
- Bladder cancer generally shows up later in life. The majority of diagnosis will be in those 65 years or older.
- Signs and symptoms of bladder cancer can easily be confused with other conditions such as bladder infections, muscle pain etcetera. It is important to inform your physician if you have been exposed to contributors which might put you at increased risk of having this disease (https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/bladder/risks/?region=on).
SOLIDARITY:
Should you be affected by bladder cancer, or should you know a colleague or recent retiree who has, the Union is in contact with survivors who are willing to offer valuable support or assistance based on their experiences.
The Union’s workers compensation specialists may also be of assistance for any claims related to workplace exposure.
Please contact us should you be interested.
In solidarity,
Your Air Canada Component of CUPE Health and Safety Committee