Plasma Cholinesterase Levels and Health Symptoms in Peruvian Farm Workers Exposed to Organophosphate Pesticides |
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Authors: | Hector C Cataño Elizabeth Carranza Carlos Huamaní Antonio F Hernández |
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Institution: | Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Instituto de Química Biológica, Microbiología y Biotecnología, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Jr Puno 1002, Jardín Botánico, Lima 1, Perú. |
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Abstract: | The purpose of this study was to examine plasma cholinesterase (PChE) changes and the adverse health effects associated with
chronic low-dose exposure to organophosphates (OPs) in a Peruvian agricultural population. A cross-sectional study with a
clinical interview and blood tests was performed among 213 farm workers from two subtropical valleys in Peru. The control
group consisted of 78 nonexposed workers from the same areas. PChE levels from the two exposed subgroups (pesticide applicators
and other agricultural jobs) were significantly lower than those of controls (1554 ± 315 U/l, 1532 ± 340 U/l, and 1787 ± 275 U/l,
respectively). Fifteen percent of the exposed population reported a past poisoning by pesticides, all of them needing medical
evaluation and treatment. They had significantly lower PChE levels as compared to those without this antecedent. Approximately
61% of the exposed workers reported pesticide-related symptoms, but no significant difference was found in their PChE as compared
to workers without symptoms. On the other hand, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was significantly associated
with higher PChE levels and with a lower risk of reporting pesticide-related symptoms, which supports the benefit from using
appropriate protective measures. In conclusion, data indicate that farm workers exposed to OPs in developing countries need
to be monitored by means of PChE and an examination of their clinical status, which would allow identification of farm workers
most at risk from pesticide toxicity. The use of correct PPE is highly recommended. |
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