ENDOSULFAN AND HEALTH ISSUES
The absorption of Endosulfan can take place through a variety of routes, such as inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or through the placenta. Endosulfan accumulates in the body and has histopathological toxicity on major organs, which is observed within the first 6 hours of exposure.
Endosulfan has a primary toxicological effect on the central nervous system, with seizures being the most common manifestation. Additionally, liver, renal and cardiac toxicity have been reported in patients with significant accumulation of the drug, as well as a variety of associated complications, including rhabdomyolosis, renal failure, hypotension, nausea and vomiting, as well as confusion, tremor and coma. Death is typically observed within 4-8 hours of exposure to endosulfan due to respiratory collapse and biochemical instability caused by extensive seizure activity.
Endosulfan has a high degree of toxicity and is easily absorbed by the stomach and lungs, as well as through the skin. Acute poisoning can cause a variety of symptoms, such as headaches, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, seizures, hyperactivity, coma, and respiratory depression, with some cases resulting in death. On the other hand, chronic poisoning is caused by repeated exposure to low levels of an agent over a long period of time.
EXPOSURE RISKS OF ENDOSULFAN
Exposure to endosulfan are different kinds. Exposure to endosulfan through dietary sources can occur in several ways, primarily through the ingestion of food that has been sprayed with endosulfan or by consuming drinking water from contaminated ground or surface sources. Occupational and accidental exposure are other types of exposures.
Both occupational and accidental exposure to endosulfan can pose health risks to individuals. Occupational exposure occurs during pesticide handling and application and can be mitigated through proper training and PPE use. Accidental exposure can affect bystanders near pesticide-treated areas and can be prevented by taking protective measures and staying informed about pesticide application activities in the vicinity. Reducing exposure to endosulfan is essential to safeguard human health and the environment.
Occupational exposure
Occupational exposure to endosulfan occurs when individuals, such as farmers, agricultural workers, or pesticide applicators, come into direct contact with endosulfan during their work activities. This exposure can take place during various stages of pesticide handling and application, including mixing, loading, applying pesticides, and re-entering treated areas. Occupational exposure to endosulfan can have adverse health effects, including acute poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to chronic health issues, including neurotoxicity, reproductive problems, and carcinogenic effects.
1. Skin Exposure: Workers who handle endosulfan-containing pesticides may be at risk of skin exposure. This can happen when they come into contact with the pesticide while mixing it, loading it into sprayers, or applying it to crops.
2. Inhalation Exposure: Inhaling endosulfan-containing pesticide aerosols or vapors is another occupational exposure route. Workers may be exposed to airborne particles when spraying pesticides or working in areas with recently applied endosulfan.
Accidental exposure
Accidental exposure to endosulfan can occur among individuals who are not directly involved in pesticide handling or application but are in proximity to areas where endosulfan is being used.
1. Skin Exposure: People near endosulfan application sites may unintentionally come into contact with the pesticide through skin exposure. This can happen through direct contact with treated surfaces or by touching contaminated objects or plants.
2. Inhalation Exposure: Accidental inhalation of endosulfan particles or vapors can occur when individuals are in the vicinity of pesticide application. Airborne drift can carry pesticide residues beyond the target area, putting bystanders at risk.