JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Background:

Currently, head and neck cancer associated with pesticide exposure represents a global public health concern. However, there is no consensus regarding the specific determinants involved in this association. Moreover, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support the development of systematic reviews on this topic.

Objective:

Objectives: To synthesize the methodology for conducting a systematic review to explore the current scientific evidence on the determinants in head and neck cancer associated with pesticides

Methods:

Methods:

The review will follow PRISMA guidelines to ensure methodological rigor. The protocol includes detailed steps for constructing a robust search strategy using relevant databases like PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, LILACS and AGRICOLA. Keywords and MeSH terms related to "pesticides," "exposure," "head and neck neoplasms," and related concepts will be used to capture the most relevant studies. Eligibility criteria will be clearly defined, including study design (e.g., cohort, case-control, cross-sectional), population characteristics, exposure assessment, and cancer outcomes. Studies published in any language with human subjects will be included. Articles will be screened in two phases: first by title and abstract, then by full-text review. Two independent reviewers will assess the quality of each study and extract key data, such as exposure levels, cancer subtypes, and effect sizes. Any disagreements will be resolved through discussion or by a third reviewer.

Results:

Results:

The findings of this review aim to contribute to the understanding of environmental risk factors for HNC and support public health policies regarding pesticide regulation and occupational safety.

Conclusions:

Conclusions:

The necessary steps to conduct a systematic review must be concise and publicly available to ensure replicability within the scientific community.