306 - Thinking Big: Tackling Cancer in Occupational Health Screening

Session Description: This session explores how occupational medicine can expand its reach by integrating cancer screening into routine practice. While screening often misses opportunities to detect serious disease early or to address both occupational and non-occupational risks, the Department of Energy Former Worker Program (FWP) has shown what is possible. Over 25 years, FWP has successfully incorporated evidence-based cancer screening into a general occupational health program, achieving high adherence and early detection. This session will highlight its experience with colon, thyroid, and lung cancer screening, including use of low-dose CT scans in large cohorts of former energy workers. Presenters will share lessons learned and practical approaches that occupational physicians can apply to enhance cancer prevention and early detection in their own screening programs.

Educational Gaps: OH physicians often miss chances to integrate cancer screening into employer services—whether for cancers tied to occupational exposures or those aligned with national wellness guidelines. This session highlights practical approaches to embed both.

Is this session being sponsored by an ACOEM Section or Component?: No

Has this session previously been presented?: No

The AOHC 2026 theme is Healthy workers. Healthy world: Our session reflects Healthy workers, Healthy world by showing how occupational medicine can go beyond narrow exposure assessments to promote comprehensive health. Cancer is both an occupational and a public health issue, and early detection saves lives. By integrating evidence-based screening for colon, thyroid, and lung cancer into workplace programs, occupational physicians can protect workers at heightened risk from exposures while also aligning with national wellness guidelines. This broader approach demonstrates how occupational health practice can bridge prevention, wellness, and early detection, advancing the health of workers and, by extension, the communities in which they live.