Industries widely utilize benzene in the production of plastics, resins, and fibers. It is also present in cigarette smoke, gasoline, and motor vehicle exhaust. Unfortunately the widespread use is also associated with a significant risk of malignancies. Leukemias, lymphomas, and lung cancers are among the malignancies commonly linked to benzene exposure. Studies have described various pathophysiological mechanisms involving interactions between the immune system, stem cells, and oxidative stress. These changes are linked to chromosomal abnormalities and the development of a mutator phenotype. In addition to cancers, benzene is associated with the acceleration of lifestyle diseases such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Other carcinogens include ultraviolet radiation, processed meat, and various air pollutants. Authorities have implemented various regulations have been established to limit exposure to such hazardous chemicals. Additionally, recommendations have been issued regarding actions to take in the event of acute benzene exposure. By raising awareness and enforcing stringent laws, the incidence of benzene-associated cancers can decline.

Metal hypersensitivity in spinal surgery is an immune-mediated reaction to metal ions released from implants like pedicle screws and rods, presenting a notable clinical challenge. Common allergens such as nickel, cobalt, and chromium can trigger delayed-type IV hypersensitivity, resulting in pain, inflammation, implant loosening, and the need for revision surgery. Risk factors include prior metal exposure through jewelry or implants, as well as comorbidities like diabetes and behaviors like smoking. Diagnosis is complex, as symptoms often resemble infection or mechanical failure, necessitating the use of tools like patch testing, lymphocyte transformation testing, and histopathological analysis. Management strategies focus on preoperative risk assessment, selection of hypoallergenic materials like PEEK or titanium, and revision surgery when hypersensitivity is confirmed. Multidisciplinary collaboration involving spine surgeons, allergists, and dermatologists is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and improved patient outcomes, emphasizing the importance of tailored implant choices and vigilant postoperative care.

Background: Migraines are a common neurological disorder which are characterised by recurrent headaches accompanied by ‘auras’, nausea, vomiting and photophobia. Objective: This review summarises the role of Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in migraine as a therapeutic and prophylactic target and evaluates the dosage strategies and tolerability of CGRP inhibitors. Summary of Findings: CGRP is a central mediator of migraines and its inhibition is led by two major classes of therapies: the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and small-molecule receptor antagonists (gepants). The mAbs (erenumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab, eptinezumab) are usually administered monthly/quarterly for prophylaxis and reduce overall monthly migraine days with favourable tolerability (mild injection site reactions seen). On the other hand, gepants (ubrogepant, rimegepant, atogepant, zavegepant) are available for use in oral and nasal formulations for both therapeutic and prophylactic use. They show moderate tolerability with acceptable gastrointestinal or neurological adverse effects. Collectively, CGRP-targeted therapies expand treatment options, offering flexibility in route, frequency, and clinical application. Conclusion: CGRP inhibitors are a relatively new therapy which are well tolerated and effective treatments that can be individualised to each patient’s needs. Further ongoing studies are required for establishing long term safety, durability and efficacy.