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Exposure to endosulfan in farmers: two case studies
1Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, Occupational Injury Prevention Program, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|June 1, 2001
Summary
Two agricultural workers experienced severe poisoning from endosulfan, an organochlorine insecticide, resulting in one fatality and permanent neurological damage. This highlights critical health and safety concerns requiring urgent attention.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Endosulfan, an organochlorine insecticide, is under re-registration review.
- Two cases of agricultural worker poisoning occurred in 1993 in southeastern states.
Observation:
- Investigation involved record reviews, blood samples, site visits, and clothing analysis for two suspected endosulfan poisoning cases.
- Exposure opportunities included mixing concentrated endosulfan and applying it to tobacco using tractor-pulled boom sprayers.
Findings:
- Case 1 was fatal, while Case 2 resulted in permanent neurological impairment.
- Absorbed endosulfan doses could not be estimated due to the lack of fat or tissue sample analysis.
Implications:
- Urgent re-examination of health and safety issues related to endosulfan is necessary.
- Cooperative, multi-disciplinary education is crucial for preventing pesticide poisonings.
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