New version of the European Code Against Cancer – now with recommendations for policymakers
The updated European Code Against Cancer (5th revision) has recently been published and includes several new recommendations aimed at reducing cancer risks related to environmental and occupational factors.
For the first time, the advice is directed not only at individuals but also at policymakers – with a focus on structural measures to reduce exposure to carcinogens, particularly in workplaces.
The Code addresses several areas relevant to environmental medicine, such as air pollution (both outdoor and indoor), radon, UV radiation, and lifestyle factors. Professor Maria Albin from the Institute of Environmental Medicine has contributed to the expert group that developed recommendations concerning occupational health, air pollution, radon, and UV exposure.
“It’s an important shift that the Code now also targets policymakers. As an employee, one often has limited ability to influence exposure to carcinogens. That’s why clear structural interventions are needed,” says Maria Albin, Professor of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Karolinska Institutet.
Among the proposed policy measures are stricter enforcement of EU occupational exposure limits, support for small businesses to reduce risks, and the inclusion of occupational health requirements in public procurement. Additionally, it is recommended that knowledge of safe working practices be integrated into education and vocational training.
The new Code is available via the European Code Against Cancer. The revision has been coordinated by a secretariat at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), under a mandate from the European Commission.
On December 9, an IMM seminar will be arranged with a presentation of the new European Code Against Cancer.