Yeungnam Univ J Med.  2020 Jan;37(1):22-31. 10.12701/yujm.2019.00416.

Reproductive toxic agents in work environments and related cases in Korea

• Park C

• KMID: 2501404
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12701/yujm.2019.00416

Abstract

There has been a growing concern and subsequent interest surrounding numerous reproductive toxic agents found in various working and non-working environments. Meanwhile, there have been many efforts in medical fields such as toxicology and epidemiology applying experimental studies to elucidate reproductive toxic agents’ characterization and health effects. However, there remains insufficient research data and inadequate evidence in humans. Adverse reproductive outcomes vary from transient, moderate health effects to severely detrimental consequences, such as permanent infertility or childhood cancer of one’s offspring. Furthermore, upon exposure to toxic agents, the latent period before reproductive health effects are observed is relatively short compared to other occupational diseases (e.g., occupational cancer); instant action is required once exposure to reproductive toxic agents is detected. Therefore, it is very important for workers and healthcare professionals to know about the reproductive toxic agents they are likely to be exposed to. In this review, we discuss the general epidemiology of reproductive health in Korea, and the information regarding these reproductive toxic agents.

Keyword

Abortion; Hazardous substances; Occupational diseases; Reproductive health

Figure

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  Fig. 1. The symbol for carcinogenicity, mutagenicity or reproductive toxicity based on globally harmonized system (GHS). Reprinted from Occupational Safety and Health Administration [6].

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  Fig. 2. The population of working women and woman’s working rate of Korea from 2009 to 2018. Source from the Korean Statistical Information Service [9].

Reference

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