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Occupational and environmental exposures reported to poison centers
T Litovitz1, G Oderda, J D White
1National Capital Poison Center, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC.
American Journal of Public Health
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Occupational and environmental exposures, unlike other poisonings, often involve inhalation and chronic conditions, leading to higher morbidity and mortality. The American Association of Poison Control Centers Toxic Exposure Surveillance System offers a valuable tool for tracking these exposures.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Poison control centers manage a wide range of exposure cases.
- Occupational and environmental exposures represent a significant public health concern.
- Data on the characteristics and outcomes of these exposures are crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize occupational and environmental exposures reported to the American Association of Poison Control Centers Toxic Exposure Surveillance System (TESS).
- To compare the features and outcomes of occupational/environmental exposures with other poisoning types.
- To highlight the role of TESS as a passive surveillance system for these exposures.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 25,368 occupational and 7,565 environmental exposure cases from the TESS database.
- Comparison of exposure routes (inhalation vs. ingestion), chronicity (acute vs. subacute/chronic), and health outcomes.
- Assessment of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource utilization.
Main Results:
- Occupational and environmental exposures were predominantly inhalation-based, contrasting with other poisoning types.
- These exposures were more frequently subacute or chronic.
- Greater morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare resource use were observed in occupational and environmental cases.
Conclusions:
- Occupational and environmental exposures present distinct patterns and more severe outcomes compared to other poisonings.
- Regional poison centers are vital for addressing information gaps in managing these exposures.
- The TESS database serves as an important, underutilized resource for passive surveillance of occupational and environmental exposures.
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