Where It Comes From
Unintended byproduct in rubber/chemical manufacturing and during water/wastewater treatment; also detected in tobacco smoke and some nitrite-preserved foods [1][2][3].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing contaminated air (especially tobacco smoke or certain workplaces), swallowing small amounts in food or water, or skin contact at work [2][3].
Why It Matters
IARC classifies NMEA as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B); animal studies show liver tumors and toxicity [1]. Nitrosamines as a class are a public health concern in water and consumer products [3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in facilities that make/process rubber or chemicals; people who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke [2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke [2]. Use workplace controls and PPE where nitrosamines may form [3]. Limit heavily cured/smoked meats and follow local drinking-water guidance [1][3].
References
- [1]IARC Monographs. Some N-Nitroso Compounds, Vol. 17. International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1978 (N-Nitrosomethylethylamine, Group 2B).
- [2]IARC Monographs. Tobacco Smoke and Involuntary Smoking, Vol. 83. IARC, 2004.
- [3]U.S. EPA. Technical Fact Sheet – N-Nitrosamines (including NDMA). EPA 505-F-14-005, 2014/2015.