Occupational exposure to formaldehyde and its effects on the central nervous system

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a type 1 carcinogen, people whose work centers are exposed to high concentrations of this compound are more likely to develop nasopharyngeal, lung cancer, and myeloid leukemia. At present, it has also been associated with post-exposure neurotoxic effects therefore those in contact with it are not only at constant risk of developing cancer, but also may develop cognitive impairments such as memory loss and dementia such as Alzheimer's. The main purpose of this review is to gather current evidence regarding the possible relationship between exposure to formaldehyde in the workplace and damage to the central nervous system.