Association of Formaldehyde Exposure to Myeloid Leukemia in Workers in Guangdong, China

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Background: * Research suggests that occupational exposure to formaldehyde is associated with increased risk for myeloid leukemia, but the significance of these findings is uncertain because of inconsistencies among studies and lack of knowledge of how formaldehyde can cause leukemia. * Damage to the DNA of myeloid cells (type of white blood cell) or an environmental factor not affecting the cell genetic machinery may be involved. Objective: To determine if formaldehyde exposure is associated with genetic or other changes in myeloid cells. Eligibility: Workers exposed to high levels of formaldehyde and unexposed workers in Guangdong Province, China. Design: * 40 exposed workers and 40 unexposed workers will be enrolled. * Subjects wear small instruments at work that measure chemicals in the air for 1 or 2 days. * Subjects have a brief physical examination and provide blood, urine, and mouth rinse samples. * Subjects answer a questionnaire about work, smoking and drinking, use of medicines, medical history, general health, exposure to radiation and exposure to various substances at home.

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