Evaluating Antineoplastic Agents and Occupational Exposures Among Italian Workers Using SIREP Surveillance System

J Occup Environ Med. 2019 Aug;61(8):669-675. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000001641.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate exposures to antineoplastic agents at workplaces in healthcare and manufacturing in Italy.

Methods: Data on antineoplastic agents were collected from occupational exposure registries. Statistical analysis was carried out for exposure-related variables. The number of workers potentially exposed was estimated for selected industrial sectors. Concurrent exposures were investigated using cluster analysis.

Results: Overall 15,763 exposure situations were analyzed during 1996 to 2016. Most exposures occurred in healthcare (66%). A total of 11,830 workers potentially exposed to antineoplastic agents was estimated. Concurrent exposures were frequently detected in the pharmaceutical industry and among healthcare workers.

Conclusions: Occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents currently represents a matter of concern both in the chemical industry and in the healthcare sector. The growing number of agents in use supports the need to constantly control exposures.

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents*
  • Databases, Factual
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Female
  • Health Care Sector*
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Male
  • Manufacturing Industry*
  • Occupational Exposure / analysis
  • Occupational Exposure / statistics & numerical data*
  • Occupational Health
  • Public Health Surveillance

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents