Biomarkers for Occupational Chemical Exposure: A Narrative Review from Traditional Monitoring to Omics and Digital Health Applications

Abstract

Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals remains a major public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where regulatory enforcement and surveillance systems are limited. This review synthesizes recent advances in the application of biomarkers for assessing occupational chemical exposure and related health effects. Relevant literature published between 2015 and 2025 was identified through searches of major scientific databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, using keywords related to occupational exposure, biomarkers, biomonitoring, omics, and digital health. Studies addressing biomarkers of exposure, effect, and susceptibility in occupational settings were reviewed and synthesized. Biomarkers of exposure, effect, and susceptibility provide direct and sensitive measures that link external exposure with internal dose and biological responses. Evidence shows strong associations between benzene exposure and hematotoxicity, organophosphate pesticides and neurotoxicity, heavy metals and renal impairment, as well as organic solvents and hepatic injury. Importantly, the usefulness of biomarkers depends on their biological half-life and the exposure window they represent, ranging from recent exposure to cumulative long-term exposure. Validation criteria such as sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and clinical relevance are essential to ensure analytical reliability and health risk interpretation. Emerging technologies, including omics-based molecular markers, non-invasive matrices, multi-matrix monitoring, and biosensor-driven point-of-care testing, are revolutionizing biomonitoring practices. These innovations, together with the integration of genetic and environmental data, are shaping a new era of Precision Occupational Health, enabling early intervention and individualized prevention. Furthermore, advances in wearable sensors and digital health platforms support near real-time occupational health surveillance and more proactive risk management. In conclusion, the integration of validated biomarkers into occupational health surveillance systems provides a powerful strategy to enhance chemical risk management, safeguard workers’ health, and inform policy decisions globally.