A new research project launched by the University of Western Australia (UWA) will see a team of scientists investigate the causes of work-related cancer and asthma.

Led by internationally respected cancer expert, Professor Lin Fritschi, the project has received over $380,000 from the Federal Government’s research health funding.

The three-year study will survey 5000 Australian workers in a bid to estimate the exposure to asthma and cancer causing agents in the workplace.

The study will be carried out by a team from UWA, Monash and Sydney universities.

Professor Fritschi said that work-related asthma and cancer were ideal candidates for preventative action, with clear policy opportunities to tackle the problem.

In order to prevent these diseases, we need to first understand how many workers are exposed to the chemicals causing asthma and cancer, in which industries the exposures occur, and whether available controls are being used," Professor Fritschi said.

"The data we collect will be used to estimate the burden of occupational asthma and cancer in Australia, and to model the effect of different preventive interventions on the future burden.

"By providing information on current exposures and the likely burden of these diseases, relevant policies and practices can be implemented to reduce the future burden."