Journal article
Clinical and Biochemical Parameters of Children and Adolescents Applying Pesticides
The International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Vol.1(3), pp.132-143
06/01/2010
PMID: 23022799
Abstract
Background: The primary agricultural product in Egypt is the cotton crop. Children and adolescents work seasonally in the cotton fields applying pesticides.
Objectives: To examine the effect of pesticide exposure on clinical and biochemical parameters in children and adolescents applying pesticides.
Methods: Male children currently applying pesticides and aged between 9 and 19 years (n = 50) were recruited for this study. They were asked to complete work, health, and exposure questionnaires; examined for any medical and neurological problems with particular attention to sensory and motor functions including cranial nerves, sensory and motor system, and reflexes. From each participant, a blood sample was taken to measure acetylcholinesterase activity, and liver and kidney functions. Children who have never worked in agriculture (n = 50), matched on age, education, and socioeconomic status were also studied and served as controls.
Results: More neuromuscular disorders were identified in pesticide applicators than controls. A significant lower level of acetylcholinesterase was found in the applicator group compared to the controls. There was also a significant difference in hematological, renal and hepatic indices in the exposed children compared to the control children. Working more days in the current season and also working more years as a pesticide applicator were both associated with an increase in the prevalence of neuromuscular abnormalities and significant changes in the laboratory tests.
Conclusion: Children and adolescent pesticide applicators working in farms of Egypt are at risk of developing serious health problems similar to those of adults.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Clinical and Biochemical Parameters of Children and Adolescents Applying Pesticides
- Creators
- A IsmailD RohlmanG Abdel RasoulM Abou SalemO Hendy
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- The International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Vol.1(3), pp.132-143
- PMID
- 23022799
- NLM abbreviation
- Int J Occup Environ Med
- ISSN
- 2008-6520
- eISSN
- 2008-6814
- Publisher
- National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) Health Organization
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 06/01/2010
- Academic Unit
- Occupational and Environmental Health; International Programs; Injury Prevention Research Center
- Record Identifier
- 9984214685202771
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