A new leaflet has been launched to raise awareness of cancer prevention among construction workers.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland pamphlet highlights the preventability of two out of three cancers, and discusses how in most cases early detection gives the best outcomes.

An estimated 8% of cancer deaths in men are work-related, the executive said.

It also points out the potential for asbestos, silica and sunlight to cause cancer and provides information on how such exposures can be avoided.

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Information on smoking cessation and sources of help and information is also given.

The leaflet is part of HSENI's ongoing campaign on workplace carcinogens which in 2009/10 will focus on asbestos.

Ken Logan, Principal Inspector in construction, said: "Construction sites pose risks to health as well as to safety. All employers can take an active role in cancer prevention and raise cancer awareness with construction workers."

Gerry McElwee, from the Ulster Cancer Foundation, said: "Every year about 5,000 new cases are diagnosed and around 2,000 local men die from cancer.

"Employee health is integral to the success of our local industries and raising cancer awareness issues both supports employees and benefits business."

Maria Bradley, HR Manager at Gilbert–Ash,added: "We would like our employees to enjoy good health both now and in retirement, that is why we take cancer prevention seriously. This leaflet is a useful resource and will be welcomed by employers and employees alike."

(PR/JM)