Effects derived from occupational exposure to hazardous substances in pregnant working women: systematic review

Abstract

Objective: To systematically review and analyze the health effects derived from occupational exposure to hazardous substances in pregnant working women. Methods: Critical analysis of studies retrieved by systematic review of MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS and MEDES, through Janu-ary 2021. The search strategy was developed by means of the descriptors «pregnancy», «hazardous substances» and «occupational exposure», as well as by using related entry terms and the filters «humans» and «adult: 19+ years». Study quality was assessed using the STROBE questionnaire, and the level of evidence and grade of recommendation via the SIGN criteria. Results: Out of 420 references identified (366 digitally and 54 manually) and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 35 articles were selected. The STROBE evaluation yielded a median score of 15.32, and the SIGN criteria a 2+ level of evidence and a C grade of recommendation. Article obsolescence was high (Burton-Kebler half-life: 22.0; Price index: 0%). In 25 out of 35 studies, the exposure evaluated was to organic solvents. In 22 articles, congenital abnormalities were identified as a health effect. Conclusions: This systematic review revealed a high level of obsolescence and a degree of evidence and recommendation that limit the validity and reliability of the observations. Results indicated an association between exposure to hazardous substances and the occurrence of different adverse health effects in pregnant workers and their offspring. The most common exposure was to organic solvents and the most common observed effect were congenital abnormalities.