Assessment of Genotoxicity Using Chromosomal Aberrations Analysis Among Healthcare Workers Exposed to Chemotherapeutic Drugs in Mansoura University Hospitals, Egypt.

Abstract

Background: The frequency of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in peripheral blood lymphocytes has been shown not only to be a useful biomarker of chemotherapeutic drugs (CDs) exposure-associated genetic damage but also to be predictive of increased future cancer risk and mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to assess CAs and their possible associated factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) occupationally exposed to CDs in Mansoura University Hospitals (MUHs).

Methods: A cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of 100 HCWs who were directly involved in handling CDs while working in chemotherapy units at MUHs. They were subjected to an interview-based, semi structured questionnaire including enquiries on sociodemographic, occupational characteristics, self-reported medical history, and CAs analysis.

Findings: This study revealed that the majority of HCWs exposed to CDs in MUHs (83%) had CAs, predominantly chromosomal breaks (75%). The frequency of CAs was statistically significantly higher among nurses compared to pharmacists. Nurses working in the clinical oncology and nuclear medicine department, those with longer working durations (>5 years), nurses who were responsible for the preparation and administration of CDs, and non-use of biological safety cabinets had statistically significantly higher frequencies of CAs. Using the linear regression model, the job title was the only significant predictor of the variation of the square root of CAs.Conclusions and Application to Practice:This study indicates that HCWs, particularly nurses, who handle CDs without appropriate safety measures are at increased risk of genotoxicity. These findings address the need for regular biomonitoring for the occupational risks among HCWs handling these drugs.