Mining and hematological diseases: a narrative literature review

Abstract

Introduction. Mining activities are an important source of occupational and environmental exposure to hematotoxic contaminants, including heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and mineral dusts. However, mining-related hematological disorders have received less attention compared with other systemic effects. This review aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the association between exposure to mining activities and hematological diseases, focusing on implicated contaminants, pathophysiological mechanisms, and reported hematological alterations. Materials and methods. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 30, 2026. Observational studies, experimental studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published in English and Spanish addressing mining exposure and hematotoxicity were included. Results. Evidence indicates that mining exposure is associated with alterations in multiple blood cell lines. Erythrocyte abnormalities include reductions in hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell counts, consistent with anemia. Leukocyte alterations, including relative lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and changes in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, have also been described, together with platelet and hemorheological disturbances. Main mechanisms involve oxidative stress, chronic systemic inflammation, immunotoxicity, disruption of heme synthesis, and genetic damage to hematopoietic cells. Prolonged exposure to contaminants such as lead, mercury, arsenic and benzene has additionally been associated with persistent cytopenias and hematological malignancies. Discussion. Mining represents a public health concern due to its potential impact on the hematopoietic system. Integrated occupational and environmental surveillance strategies, as well as longitudinal studies addressing cumulative and mixed exposures, are needed to improve understanding of these effects.