Occupational exposure to pentachlorophenol causing lymphoma and hematopoietic malignancy for two generations

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Occupational Medicine
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is classified as a probable human carcinogen, particularly for lymphoma and hematopoietic neoplasms.
• Previous population studies yielded uncertain conclusions regarding PCP's carcinogenicity in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review epidemiologic studies on the association between occupational PCP exposure and cancer in workers.
• To investigate the link between parental PCP exposure and childhood lymphoma and leukemia.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE database and reference lists.
• Data were extracted from 20 relevant studies published between 1986 and 2012.

Main Results:

• Meta-analysis revealed a significant association between occupational PCP exposure and lymphoma (pooled OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.52-4.35), especially non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
• Cohort studies indicated elevated risks, with increased risk correlating with cumulative exposure duration.
• Evidence suggests a potential increased risk of childhood leukemia linked to parental PCP exposure during the preconception period.

Conclusions:

• The review provides evidence suggesting that occupational PCP exposure may increase the risk of lymphoma and hematopoietic neoplasms in exposed workers.
• Findings also indicate a potential increased risk of these cancers in the offspring of parents occupationally exposed to PCP.