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

Abstract

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