EXPOSURE to chemicals poses risks to everyone, but it affects males and females differently in terms of physical health and reproductive well-being. Susceptibility to chemical exposure varies by sex, starting in the womb and continuing through infancy, early development, and puberty, when adolescents are particularly vulnerable. Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring the health of future generations.

Often overlooked, domestic exposure to chemicals and toxins should also be considered. Men and women typically use different personal care products and cosmetics, leading to varied levels of exposure. Women tend to use more personal care items than men, which increases their dermal exposure to toxins. Additionally, household cleaning products contribute to chemical exposure. As gender roles evolve, so do patterns of exposure, underscoring the urgent need for research to assess how women continue to be affected by chemicals. While public health data on chemical exposure among males and females is limited, available information indicates that incidences of diseases such as cancer in occupational settings are tied to both men and women working in environments with hazardous chemicals.

Anatomical and physiological differences between men and women determine which organs are most susceptible to chemical-related diseases. For example, lipophilic chemicals — which target fatty tissue — are associated with higher incidences of disease in the breast, hips, and thighs for women, while men are more affected in the trunk and abdomen. Heavy metals like cadmium, mercury, lead, and Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are linked to morbidity in women, whereas pesticides and metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and nickel are associated with prostate cancer in men. As society undergoes changes in prescribed gender roles, shifts in emerging carcinogenic diseases have led to significant public health implications.

The changing roles of men and women in the workforce also significantly impact health outcomes related to chemical exposure in occupational settings. Research data from Martinique in 2009 indicated a frequency of prostate and breast cancer linked to prolonged pesticide exposure. Other research indicates respiratory health issues resulting from pesticide exposure, with various respiratory symptoms and diseases associated with occupational settings. Chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have strong associations with occupational pesticide exposure, which can occur during the production, transportation, preparation, and application of pesticides at work.

Lead exposure has historically affected painters who used lead-based paint, resulting in health issues like wrist drop and foot drop. In less developed countries, battery recycling facilities pose a serious risk of lead exposure and environmental contamination. Public safety officials, such as those working at shooting ranges that use lead ammunition, may also face heightened levels of lead exposure. Occupational exposure not only affects adults but can also pose risks to children, as lead may be brought home on clothing.

In the medical profession, studies are being conducted on medical students, embalmers, and others who work with cadavers. These professionals often experience irritation in the mucous membranes of the pharynx, upper respiratory tract, and eyes. Research also shows a slightly elevated mortality rate from cancer among embalmers, along with a significant excess of arteriosclerotic heart disease and a lower incidence of pneumonia-related deaths.

The Gender and the Sound Management of Chemicals and Waste Report (2018) emphasises the importance of gender analysis, which critically examines how differences in gender roles, activities, needs, opportunities, and rights impact men, women, girls, and boys. This analysis considers access to resources and the constraints faced by different groups. Improved scientific knowledge on health outcomes specific to men and women will greatly inform policymaking.

Sherika Whitelocke-Ballingsingh is poison information coordinator, Caribbean Poison Information Network (CARPIN), University of Technology, Jamaica.

Nancy Marangu is policy & strategy specialist, Chemichemi Foundation, Kenya.