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Chemical carcinogenicity and the antineoplastic agents
American Journal of Hospital Pharmacy
|September 1, 1984
Summary
Environmental factors cause most cancers, including lifestyle choices and some medications. Reducing exposure to chemical carcinogens, like antineoplastic agents, is crucial for cancer prevention.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Approximately 70-90% of human cancers are attributed to environmental factors.
- Major contributors include cigarette use, alcohol consumption, and dietary habits.
- Pharmaceuticals, specifically antineoplastic agents, are suspected to cause about 1% of cancer deaths.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review chemical carcinogenicity, focusing on environmental factors and mechanisms.
- To discuss dose-response, secondary tumors, and the carcinogenicity of antineoplastic agents.
- To emphasize risk reduction strategies for healthcare professionals handling antineoplastic drugs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of chemical carcinogenicity.
- Discussion of environmental factors and their role in cancer.
- Analysis of mechanisms of mutagenesis and carcinogenesis.
- Examination of dose-response relationships and secondary tumor development.
Main Results:
- Chemical carcinogenesis is a multi-step process (initiation, promotion, progression).
- Cancer development is a lengthy process, influenced by tissue susceptibility.
- The precise carcinogenic effects of antineoplastic agents in humans are challenging to ascertain from existing literature.
- Factors influencing host defense against carcinogens require further evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Minimizing exposure to potential carcinogens is essential for controlling chemical carcinogenesis.
- Healthcare professionals must employ systematic avoidance and adhere to procedures when handling antineoplastic agents to mitigate risks.