Acute non-occupational intoxications with pesticides in Romania: a comparative study from 1988 to 1993

Cases of non-occupational intoxications with pesticides registered in 26 counties of Romania between 1988 and 1993 are reported. From the total number the accidental cases represent high values (53%-73%) in this period, showing an elevated death rate of 10.1%-26.4%. Products or active substances which contributed to intoxications were identified only in approximately 30% of cases. Therefore, a more careful analysis of cases with intoxications and a more rigorous control by law of pesticide use is recommended.