Biomonitoring of pharmacists and nurses at occupational risk from handling antineoplastic agents

Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of genetic lesions in pharmacists and nurses who prepare and/or handle antineoplastic agents and to evaluate whether there are traces of contaminants in the urine of these professionals. Methods A total of 59 professionals participated in the study, of which 10 were non-exposed professionals (controls), 25 were pharmacists, and 24 were nurses. Key findings There was a significant increase in genetic damage in lymphocytes and cells of the oral mucosa in both pharmacists and nurses. The levels of cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide were also increased in the urine samples from those individuals. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the growing need for genetic biomonitoring and biomonitoring of trace antineoplastic agents in the urine of health professionals who prepare and/or handle antineoplastic agents.