Abstract

This review of epidemiological studies of hazards faced by pregnant workers exposed to chemical contaminants was undertaken to update the current knowledge base and suggest new research orientations.

Using an analytical checklist specifically developed for the project, 119 epidemiological studies were reviewed. The results suggest that the risk of negative birth outcomes is higher in the following sectors: agriculture (miscarriage), rubber and plastics products (miscarriage), leather (stillbirth), metal (miscarriage), and laboratory (birth defects). Solvent exposure may increase the risk of stillbirth and birth defects, exposure to anaesthetic gases may increase the risk of miscarriage, and handling anti-neoplastic drugs may be associated with an increase in birth defects. Overall, it appears that the highest priority should be given to research on the reproductive effects of solvent exposure.