Current Intelligence Bulletin 47: 4,4′-Methylenedianiline(MDA)(Revised)

The purpose of this bulletin is to disseminate recent information on the potential carcinogenicity of 4,4′-methylenedianiline (MDA) previously identified by NIOSH in 1976 in CIB No. 8 as 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM). In the CIB, the occupational health community was informed of the hepatotoxicity of DDM in animals and humans and of limited evidence regarding the potential carcinogenicity of DDM in animals. Since 1976, animal studies have confirmed the carcinogenic potential of MDA. In accordance with the Cancer Policy of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“Identification, Classification, and Regulation of Potential Occupational Carcinogens,” 29 CFR 1990), on the basis of findings of carcinogenic and tumorigenic responses in rats and mice, NIOSH recommends that MDA be regarded as a potential occupational carcinogen. While estimates of the excess risk of cancer in exposed workers have not been determined, it is logical to assume that reducing exposure to MDA in the workplace would reduce the potential risk. It is recommended that producers and users of MDA disseminate this information to their workers and customers, that professional and trade associations and unions inform their members of the potential hazards of MDA, and that appropriate engineering controls and work practices be used to minimize exposure of workers.

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