Chimney Sweep's Cancer, also called soot wart, and chimney sweep's scrotum
is a squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the scrotum. Warts
caused by the irritation from soot particles, if not excised,
developed into a scrotal cancer, then enlarged the testicle and
proceeded up the spermatic cord into the abdomen where it proved
fatal. It is the first reported form of occupational cancer, and
was first identified during 1775. It was initially noticed as
being prevalent among chimney sweeps.
Bagpiper's Fungus - Bagpipes are made of sheepskin
traditionally coated in treacle or honey on the lining to keep
it airtight. The inside is sticky, dark and damp, making it a
breeding ground for spores and fungus. Pipers breath in those
bacteria and develop pneumonia, respiratory infections, and
more.
Wool Sorter's Disease - this condition usually afflicts
those working with wool, like sheep shearers. What the name
doesn't suggest is just how bad this disease actually is. The
more common name is anthrax. A person can contract meningitis,
high fever, and severe abdominal pain before finally suffering a
fatal respiratory collapse - all from breathing in the bacteria
hidden in sheep's wool.