A case/control study was undertaken to assess the relationship between occupation and brain tumor (BT) development. A group of 139 BT patients, ranging in age from 18 to 74 years, was included in this study. Two age, sex, and ethnic origin matched controls were selected for each patient. All patients and controls were interviewed to collect demographic, occupation, education, nutrition, smoking, and ionizing radiation exposure information. BT risk estimations were compiled using Cornfield confidence intervals and unconditional logistic regression. Odds ratios (ORs) for BT showed significantly increased risk for those employed in the textile industry (OR=2.2) and construction (OR=9.8). Distribution of BT by occupation showed increased risk for blue collar workers (OR=1.9), particularly for weavers and tailors (OR=2.7), and drivers and motor vehicle operators (OR=2.8). Histological examination showed increased risk for malignant BT among blue collar workers and among drivers and motor vehicle operators. Tailors and weavers were at increased risk for meningioma. The authors conclude that there is an increased risk of developing BTs associated with some occupations.

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