EFFECT OF FORMALIN EXPOSURE ON MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Abstract
Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is commonly employed as an embalming agent in anatomy dissection laboratories nationwide for cadaver preservation. While the effects of formalin are well-recognized anecdotally among medical teaching faculty, there is a dearth of well-documented quantitative research examining its impact on students or teaching staff who regularly handle it. This study aims to quantitatively assess the effects of formalin exposure on healthy first-year medical students aged 18-23. The findings revealed that nearly all subjects reported experiencing some adverse symptoms, with an average of 6-7 symptoms per individual. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between symptoms related to nasal irritation and syncopal episodes.
INTRODUCTION
Cadaver embalming is a preservation process that prevents decay through the infusion of chemical substances. A variety of substances, including formalin, alcohol, glycerine, carbolic acid, and dyes, are employed for this purpose. These substances, typically infused via the femoral or internal carotid arteries, each serve specific roles in the embalming process(1,2).
References
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Kamaldeep Singh Balowria
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Kathua
Masooma Syed
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Baramulla
Farah Syed
Senior Resident, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Srinagar