Impact of Short-Term Formalin Exposure on Follicular Phase Reproductive Hormones Among Students at the Nnewi Campus Running head; Short-Term Formalin Exposure and Reproductive Hormones

Abstract

Background: Formaldehyde is widely used as a preservative in cadaveric dissection laboratories, resulting in routine exposure of medical students during anatomical training. Despite its extensive use, concerns persist regarding its potential endocrine and cardiovascular effects, particularly following short-term exposure.

Objectives: This study assessed the effect of short-term (3-hour) formalin exposure on serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and blood pressure among female medical students at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus.

Methods: A cross-sectional, pre–post exposure study was conducted among 45 female medical students aged 18–35 years. Baseline blood samples collected prior to cadaveric dissection served as pre-exposure controls, while post-exposure samples were obtained after a 3-hour formalin exposure session. Serum FSH and LH levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blood pressure was measured using an automated digital sphygmomanometer (OMRON 907). Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and Pearson correlation analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: A significant reduction was observed in mean serum luteinizing hormone levels following formalin exposure (14.39 ± 11.23 IU/L) compared with baseline values (17.51 ± 16.10 IU/L) (p < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure increased significantly post-exposure relative to baseline (p < 0.05). A weak but significant negative correlation was found between post-exposure serum FSH levels and diastolic blood pressure (r = −0.374, p = 0.011).

Conclusion: Short-term formalin exposure was associated with reduced serum LH levels and increased systolic blood pressure in female medical students. These findings suggest that even brief exposure may disrupt hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis regulation, potentially predisposing exposed individuals to hypoleutinism and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Enhanced exposure control measures and routine physiological monitoring are recommended in anatomy laboratories.