Occupational Exposure to Wood Dust and Risk of Lymphoma: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Mahna Soleimani; Masih Shawker; Zahra Hosseini Makarem; Zeinab Torbati Aghdam; Fatemeh Shirazimoghadam; Yaser Soleimani; Alireza Mosavi Jarrahi

doi:10.31557/apjec.2635.20260628

Authors

Mahna Soleimani Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Masih Shawker Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Zahra Hosseini Makarem Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Zeinab Torbati Aghdam Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Fatemeh Shirazimoghadam Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Yaser Soleimani Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Alireza Mosavi Jarrahi Cancer Research Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31557/apjec.2635.20260628

Abstract

Background: Occupational exposure to wood dust is common in industries such as carpentry, furniture manufacturing, construction, and sawmilling. Wood dust is a well-established risk factor for sinonasal cancers; however, its potential association with lymphoma remains unclear. Epidemiological studies have reported inconsistent findings, possibly due to differences in exposure assessment, lymphoma classification, study design, and confounding control.

Objective: This protocol outlines the methodology for a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between occupational exposure to wood dust and risk of lymphoma, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), and specific lymphoma subtypes where data permit.

Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library will be conducted from inception to the date of search. Observational studies (cohort and case–control designs) reporting quantitative effect estimates for wood dust exposure and lymphoma will be included. Two reviewers will independently screen studies, extract data, and assess risk of bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Random-effects meta-analysis will be performed using Stata version 17. Heterogeneity will be assessed using I² and τ² statistics. Subgroup, sensitivity, and publication bias analyses will be conducted where appropriate.

Conclusion: This study will provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence regarding wood dust exposure and lymphoma risk, helping clarify inconsistencies and informing occupational health policies.