A CLOSER EXAMINATION OF RISKS OF FORMALIN ON ANATOMISTS AND PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES DURING CADAVERIC DISSECTION - A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Formalin, a  common preservative in cadaveric embalming is quintessential for anatomy dissection, thereby exposing  anatomists, medical students, and laboratory personnel  to serious health hazards due to formaldehyde, its active component, which is a recognised toxic and carcinogenic substance. The mechanisms of formaldehyde toxicity, the sensitivity of anatomists due to exposure frequency and duration, and  the global  statistics on formalin exposure and  preventive measures such as  engineering and  administrative measures, institutional guidelines, regulatory frameworks from WHO, OSHA, and national agencies,  personal protective equipment (PPE), including  the investigation of safer chemical alternatives have been systematically reviewed. The important pillars for the health and safety of  anatomical sciences personale  are faculty training programs, institutional accountability, and the incorporation of safety instruction into medical curriculum.