[Respiratory function disorders caused by agrochemical exposure]

With the aim to evaluate possible influences of exposition to agrochemicals upon the respiratory system, the ventilatory parameters VC, FEV1,0, FIV1,0, and the values of PaO2 and PaCO2 were investigated in 93 males professionally exposed to mineral fertilizers, and in 69 males professionally exposed to pesticides--both groups working in agrochemical centres. A control group consisted of 162 males without exposition to agrochemicals. In exposed workers mean values of VC, FEV1,0, and PaO2 were lower (highly significant) compared with the control group. Mean values of FEV1,0, FIV1,0, and PaO2 in workers exposed to mineral fertilizers were in the borderline region. Influences upon the respiratory system should be further investigated with regard to long-term effects and to fitness for the job.