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The Epping jaundice outbreak: a 24 year follow up
A J Hall1, J M Harrington, J A Waterhouse
1University of Birmingham, Institute of Occupational Health, Edgbaston, United Kingdom.
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
|August 1, 1992
Summary
A 1965 accidental methylene dianiline (MDA) ingestion in Epping led to jaundice. Long-term follow-up revealed minimal health effects, though further study of this cohort is warranted.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Accidental ingestion of methylene dianiline (MDA) in 1965 caused jaundice in 84 individuals.
- This event provides a unique opportunity to study potential long-term health consequences of MDA exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To trace 84 cases of jaundice following accidental methylene dianiline (MDA) ingestion.
- To investigate the long-term health effects in individuals exposed to MDA.
Main Methods:
- Community-based survey utilizing original case notes.
- Patient tracing via general practitioners, NHS Registry, electoral rolls, and company records.
Main Results:
- Health status of 68 individuals (81%) was determined, with 18 deaths.
- Among survivors, 58% completed health questionnaires; one death involved biliary tract carcinoma.
- Two survivors experienced retinal pathology, and four had further jaundice episodes.
Conclusions:
- This follow-up study, a generation later, shows limited evidence of long-term health sequelae from accidental MDA ingestion.
- Despite limited findings, accidental poisonings involving known animal carcinogens necessitate continued long-term monitoring.
- The identified cohort will be subject to further investigation.
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