A factory worker who has been repeatedly exposed to vinyl chloride monomer for 15 years presents with hepatic angiosarcoma. Which occupational classification of carcinogens BEST fits vinyl chloride monomer?
- A IARC Group 2A — Probable human carcinogen
- B IARC Group 2B — Possible human carcinogen
- C IARC Group 1 — Known human carcinogen ✓
- D IARC Group 3 — Not classifiable
Correct answer: C. IARC Group 1 — Known human carcinogen
Explanation
Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is an IARC Group 1 (definite human carcinogen), specifically causing hepatic angiosarcoma — a rare hepatic malignancy otherwise uncommon in the general population. This is a classical occupational cancer association. Angiosarcoma in a worker with PVC/vinyl chloride exposure is pathognomonic of this occupational carcinogen.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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