Author(s): Melissa J Vincent, Seneca Fitch, Lauren Bylsma, Chad Thompson, Sarah Rogers, Janice Britt, Daniele Wikoff
These authors evaluate whether there is a causal link between inhaled formaldehyde exposure and lymphohematopoietic (LHP) cancers, which include Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, lymphoid leukemia, myeloid leukemia, and monocytic leukemia. The authors employ a systematic review methodology aligned with international recommendations, integrating epidemiological, toxicological, and mechanistic evidence to assess causality. The process involved comprehensive literature searches, critical appraisal via risk of bias (RoB) tools, and synthesis of findings from relevant studies. No biologically plausible explanation linking the inhalation of formaldehyde and LHP was identified, supported primarily by the lack of systemic distribution and in vivo genotoxicity. The review highlights the importance of biological plausibility and appropriate application of appraisal tools in reaching conclusions about the health risks of formaldehyde exposure.