Self-reported physical and psychological effects following a malathion pesticide incident

To assess effects attributed to malathion which escaped from an overheated tank at a chemical plant in Linden, New Jersey, researchers surveyed seamen subjects (n = 22) on board a nearby tanker and seamen control subjects (n = 21). Self-report measurement strategies included a medical review of body systems, the "demoralization" scale reflecting psychological symptoms of distress, demographics, and factors that may buffer stress, specifically, social support and knowledge regarding toxic chemicals. Self-reported postincident physical health differences between the two groups of seamen were noted. There were no differences between subjects and control subjects on demoralization levels. Further analysis indicated higher levels of demoralization among less knowledgeable seamen subjects.