Environmental Risk Factors: The role of oncology nurses in assessing and reducing the risk for exposure.

BACKGROUND: The multifaceted origins of cancer are related to the dynamic interface between the human body and the environment. It is estimated that as many as 60% of cancers arise from environmental exposures. OBJECTIVES: This article describes potential risks for exposure to radon, arsenic, pesticides, and antineoplastic agents, which can lead to the development of cancer. METHODS: The authors performed a review of the literature on environmental exposures and their relationship to the development of cancer. FINDINGS: Environmental factors are abundant in the home, workplace, and environment. Nurses can lead campaigns to educate the public about environmental risk factors and their effects on the development of cancer.