Labor Costs in Floriculture: The Link Between Pesticide Use and Occupational Cancer Risk

OBJECTIVE: This article examines the financial impact of occupational cancer resulting from pesticide exposure and other carcinogenic agents in the floriculture sector of Cundinamarca, Colombia. It begins with a literature review covering (the) industry context, key occupational health factors, labor costs, and human capital. Based on this review, the study identifies gaps in the economic analysis of work-related illnesses such as cancer, particularly regarding hidden costs. Method: Using a quantitative explanatory approach, the research applies a multiple linear regression model to a dataset of 7,300 observations, analyzing absenteeism, labor costs, and worked days in relation to productivity. RESULTS: The findings show a (59%) drop in productivity per diagnosed worker, leading to increased costs. The model yields an R² of (0.876), statistically supporting the hypothesis. CONCLUSION: The study confirms the existence of hidden costs such as absenteeism, employee replacement, and medical expenses that are not reflected in financial statements.