Plasma Cholinesterase Levels of Nepalese Farmers Following Exposure to Organophosphate Pesticides

BACKGROUND: Farmers in developing countries use highly toxic organophosphate pesticides. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare plasma cholinesterase (PChE) enzyme activity before and after exposure to organophosphate pesticides in a real-life setting. METHODS: This was a prospective study conducted on 25 farmers spraying organophosphate pesticide in their farm. The PChE level was measured and clinical signs and symptoms of toxicity were asked before and immediately after spraying. RESULTS: The mean level of PChE before and after spraying was 1.41 and 1.29 IU/L, respectively (8.51% decreased). Farmers reported more clinical signs and symptoms of intoxication after spraying pesticides. CONCLUSIONS: Increase in acute intoxication signs/symptoms and decrease in PChE indicate a serious public health problem among farmers who use organophosphate pesticides. Appropriate training to the farmers is needed to reduce exposure to organophosphate pesticide.