Where It Comes From
Cancer treatment (IV infusions, injections, topical creams); found in healthcare and home-care settings where the drug is prepared, given, or disposed [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Touching contaminated vials, surfaces, or linens; breathing aerosols during compounding/administration; contact with a patient’s urine, stool, or vomit for about 48 hours after treatment [1].
Why It Matters
Can irritate skin and eyes; high or repeated exposure may cause nausea, headaches, and bone‑marrow suppression; it’s genotoxic and can harm fertility or a developing fetus [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Pharmacists, nurses, physicians, veterinarians, environmental services and laundry staff, home caregivers, and especially people who are pregnant or trying to conceive [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use closed systems and biological safety cabinets; wear chemotherapy-tested double gloves, gown, and eye/face protection; wash hands; handle patient waste with PPE for 48 hours; clean spills properly; dispose of drugs and contaminated items as hazardous waste—don’t flush [1][2][3].
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH. Preventing Occupational Exposures to Antineoplastic and Other Hazardous Drugs in Health Care Settings. DHHS (NIOSH) Pub No. 2004‑165. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-165/
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH List of Antineoplastic and Other Hazardous Drugs in Healthcare Settings, 2016. DHHS (NIOSH) Pub No. 2016‑161. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2016-161/
- [3]WHO IPCS. Fluorouracil Poison Information Monograph (PIM). https://www.inchem.org/ (search “Fluorouracil PIM”)