Mortality of California agricultural workers

The mortality of white male farm laborers and farm operators in California for the years 1959 to 1961 was examined. Cause-specific mortality rates were calculated in order to identify diseases which might be of occupational importance. The mortality rate from respiratory diseases in the farm laborer groups (employees) was triple the rate in the farm management group (employers or self-employed individuals). Accidental deaths were also increased in the farm laborer group. Hazards of the agricultural industry which could contribute to accidents and respiratory disease were reviewed.