Farmworker Exposure to Cholinesterase-Inhibiting Insecticides in Northern Colorado
Author: Hendrikson, Edward PA-C, MS
Date Published: 1990
Forty-five Hispanic farmworkers were followed over a two year period to determine if there was an adverse effect on their plasma red blood cell cholinesterase (ChE) due to their anticipated chronic exposure to anticholinergic insecticides. Twenty-six of the subjects completed the study. Blood was analyzed during three different time periods: July and August 1987, and March and April and July and August 1988. A questionnaire and physical examination were also performed. Plasma ChE was found to be inhibited during the periods of heaviest pesticide use in Northern Colorado. Red blood cell ChE was found to have a possible rebound action due to chronic exposure. Other factors that seemed to affect ChE levels were age, ETOH intake, and number of years worked in the fields. In addition, it was noted that only 6.5% of the farmworkers wore protective clothing.
Date Published: 1990
Forty-five Hispanic farmworkers were followed over a two year period to determine if there was an adverse effect on their plasma red blood cell cholinesterase (ChE) due to their anticipated chronic exposure to anticholinergic insecticides. Twenty-six of the subjects completed the study. Blood was analyzed during three different time periods: July and August 1987, and March and April and July and August 1988. A questionnaire and physical examination were also performed. Plasma ChE was found to be inhibited during the periods of heaviest pesticide use in Northern Colorado. Red blood cell ChE was found to have a possible rebound action due to chronic exposure. Other factors that seemed to affect ChE levels were age, ETOH intake, and number of years worked in the fields. In addition, it was noted that only 6.5% of the farmworkers wore protective clothing.
