Where It Comes From
Manufacture and compounding of cancer drugs, hospital pharmacies, research labs, and medical waste; patient excreta after treatment can contain residues [2].
How You Are Exposed
Skin contact with drug solutions or contaminated surfaces, inhalation of aerosols during preparation, handling soiled linens or body fluids, and spill clean‑ups [2].
Why It Matters
Strong cytotoxic and mutagenic agent; can suppress bone marrow and damage reproductive cells. Evaluated by IARC as a carcinogenic hazard based on animal data [1]. Occupational exposure to antineoplastics is linked to adverse reproductive and health effects [2].
Who Is at Risk
Oncology nurses, pharmacists/technicians, cleaning staff, lab/manufacturing workers, home caregivers of treated patients; pregnant or breastfeeding workers are especially vulnerable [2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow NIOSH safe‑handling controls—closed‑system transfer devices, chemo‑rated double gloves, disposable gowns, eye/face protection, and ventilated cabinets; clean spills promptly and dispose as hazardous waste. Caregivers: wear gloves for body fluids, wash hands, flush twice, and launder soiled items separately for 48 hours after treatment [2].
References
- [1]IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans: Some Antineoplastic and Immunosuppressive Agents. International Agency for Research on Cancer.
- [2]NIOSH. Preventing Occupational Exposures to Antineoplastic and Other Hazardous Drugs in Health Care Settings. CDC/NIOSH.