Abstract: Background: Formalin, a 37–40% aqueous solution of formaldehyde, is the most widely used preservative for cadavers in medical colleges because of its excellent tissue-fixation and antimicrobial properties. However, exposure to its vapors during anatomy dissection can lead to several acute and chronic health effects, particularly among first-year medical students who spend prolonged periods in dissection halls. Formaldehyde is a known irritant and carcinogen that primarily affects the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Therefore, assessing its health impact in educational settings is crucial for ensuring occupational safety and optimizing learning environments.

Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of formalin exposure on medical students attending anatomy dissection sessions at a tertiary care medical college and to analyze the association between protective practices, exposure parameters, and the occurrence of symptoms.

Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 90 first-year medical students regularly attending anatomy dissection classes. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire covering demographic details, exposure characteristics, and self-reported symptoms. Objective measurements such as pulse rate, respiratory rate, and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) were recorded before and after dissection sessions. Students with pre-existing respiratory or allergic disorders were excluded. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26.0, applying descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and paired t-tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The most common symptoms reported were eye irritation (73.33%), throat irritation (66.67%), and headache (62.22%). Students not using masks had a higher frequency of respiratory symptoms (73.33%) compared to mask users (46.67%, p = 0.028). Physiological assessment showed a significant increase in pulse rate (p = 0.001) and respiratory rate (p = 0.002) after dissection, while PEFR decreased significantly (p = 0.004). Poor ventilation and closer proximity to cadavers were associated with higher symptom prevalence.

Conclusion: Formalin exposure during anatomy dissection produces measurable physiological changes and high symptom prevalence among students. The use of masks and improved ventilation significantly reduce exposure-related effects. Adoption of preventive measures, awareness programs, and safer alternatives are essential to safeguard the health of medical students.

Keywords: Formalin exposure, medical students, anatomy dissection, respiratory symptoms, Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR)

Abstract: Background: Formalin, a 37–40% aqueous solution of formaldehyde, is the most widely used preservative for cadavers in medical colleges because of its excellent tissue-fixation and antimicrobial properties. However, exposure to its vapors during anatomy dissection can lead to several acute and chronic health effects, particularly among first-year medical students who spend prolonged periods in dissection halls. Formaldehyde is a known irritant and carcinogen that primarily affects the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Therefore, assessing its health impact in educational settings is crucial for ensuring occupational safety and optimizing learning environments.

Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of formalin exposure on medical students attending anatomy dissection sessions at a tertiary care medical college and to analyze the association between protective practices, exposure parameters, and the occurrence of symptoms.

Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 90 first-year medical students regularly attending anatomy dissection classes. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire covering demographic details, exposure characteristics, and self-reported symptoms. Objective measurements such as pulse rate, respiratory rate, and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) were recorded before and after dissection sessions. Students with pre-existing respiratory or allergic disorders were excluded. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26.0, applying descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and paired t-tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The most common symptoms reported were eye irritation (73.33%), throat irritation (66.67%), and headache (62.22%). Students not using masks had a higher frequency of respiratory symptoms (73.33%) compared to mask users (46.67%, p = 0.028). Physiological assessment showed a significant increase in pulse rate (p = 0.001) and respiratory rate (p = 0.002) after dissection, while PEFR decreased significantly (p = 0.004). Poor ventilation and closer proximity to cadavers were associated with higher symptom prevalence.

Conclusion: Formalin exposure during anatomy dissection produces measurable physiological changes and high symptom prevalence among students. The use of masks and improved ventilation significantly reduce exposure-related effects. Adoption of preventive measures, awareness programs, and safer alternatives are essential to safeguard the health of medical students.