The long-term health consequences of early labor remain insufficiently understood. This study explores the association between age at labor onset and cancer risk among older adults in Ecuador.

We analyzed data from the 2009 Health, Well-being, and Aging Survey (SABE), including 3,791 adults aged 60 and older from mainland Ecuador. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between age at first work (5–12, 13–17, 18–25 [reference group], and 26–35 years) and self-reported cancer, adjusting for sociodemographic and early-life factors.

Compared to those who began working at ages 18–25, individuals who started between 5 and 12 years had 1.087 times higher odds of cancer (≈ 4% increased risk), while those starting at 13–17 years had 1.156 times higher odds (≈ 7% increased risk). Those who entered the workforce at 26–35 years showed 3.477 times higher odds. Although statistically significant, the effect sizes for early starters were modest.

Early initiation of labor was modestly associated with increased odds of cancer in older Ecuadorian adults. This study should be viewed as a first step in exploring potential long-term consequences of child labor on chronic disease. Findings emphasize the importance of preventing child labor and highlight the need for further research with longitudinal data to clarify mechanisms and strengthen causal inference.