Extent of Primary DNA Damage Measured by the Comet Assay in Health Professionals Exposed to Antineoplastic Drugs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Vincenza Gianfredi, Daniele Nucci, Cristina Fatigoni, Tania Salvatori, Milena Villarini, Massimo Moretti
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Antineoplastic drugs (ANDs) are a broad group of chemicals showing, at the same time, carcinogenic effects. The potential, albeit true, risk of side effects cannot be accepted, especially if resulting from occupational exposure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between occupational exposure to ANDs and the extent of primary DNA damage in health professionals. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus were used to perform the literature search. The databases were examined in July 2019. Sub-group, moderator, and cumulative analyses were conducted. The trim and fill method was used in the case of potential publication bias. RESULTS: = 0.000] based on 1569 subjects. The moderator analysis by duration of exposure showed a positive association between duration of exposure and primary DNA damage. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review clearly shows a significant association between occupational exposure to ANDs and the extent of primary DNA damage in health professionals. Considering these results, health professionals should be warned against this potential occupational risk.