Multiple Myeloma and Occupational Risk Factors: A Narrative Review
Alireza Hejrati1, Sadaf Parvin2, Mehrnia Omidali2
1Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Hazrat-e Rasool General Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a neoplastic hematologic disorder caused by the excessive proliferation of plasma cells and leads to bone lesions, anemia, and kidney failure. No definite etiology has been proposed for MM, but several environmental and genetic risk factors have been implicated so far. Exposure to pesticides, benzene, and organic solvents like methyl chloride have been considered a potential risk factor. Asbestos, ionizing radiation, and wood dust exposure have also been associated with MM. As MM is a relatively rare condition, the number of studies is insufficient, and in many studies, only a few study participants recall exposure to any agents. Therefore, establishing a definite risk factor is cumbersome and further studies with large study samples are needed. By recognizing these occupational risk factors, clinicians can encourage employees to reduce their exposure as more as possible and implement precautionary measures. In this review, we highlighted the current research on the potential association between occupational exposures and MM. Because of these studies, new regulations with the goal of occupational exposure reduction are anticipated in the future.
Insights
Occupational exposures like pesticides and asbestos may increase the risk of developing multiple myeloma (MM), a rare cancer. Further research is needed to confirm these links and inform protective measures.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Medicine
Background:
- Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell neoplasm linked to bone lesions, anemia, and renal failure.
- The exact cause of MM remains unknown, but environmental and genetic factors are suspected.
- Potential occupational risk factors include pesticides, benzene, organic solvents, asbestos, radiation, and wood dust.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the association between occupational exposures and Multiple Myeloma.
- To identify potential environmental risk factors for MM in the workplace.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating occupational exposures and MM.
- Analysis of existing research on environmental and genetic risk factors for MM.
Main Results:
- Several occupational agents, including pesticides, benzene, solvents, asbestos, radiation, and wood dust, have been implicated as potential MM risk factors.
- Current studies often have limited sample sizes and rely on participant recall, complicating definitive risk factor identification.
- A definitive etiology for MM is yet to be established, necessitating larger-scale investigations.
Conclusions:
- Recognizing occupational risk factors is crucial for clinicians to advise employees on exposure reduction and implement safety measures.
- Further large-scale studies are required to establish definitive occupational risk factors for MM.
- Anticipated future regulations aim to reduce occupational exposure risks associated with MM development.
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