The Pesticides Trust [now PAN UK] has recently taken over the work of PEGS (Pesticides Exposure Groups of Sufferers) in supporting victims of pesticide exposure. Alison Craig, who co-ordinates this work, reported that about 1,100 calls are received annually from people who are suffering the consequences of pesticides exposure. About 50% of calls are from people who have been exposed to local authority applied pesticides or domestic pesticides. The most common chemicals involved are glyphosate used in street weed control and malathion used in headlice treatment.
While doctors and hospitals can deal with people suffering acute poisoning from pesticides or any other chemicals, non-acute victims who may be suffering from a variety of chronic symptoms are often inadequately dealt with. Individuals react to chemicals in different ways and recognition of illnesses such as multiple chemical sensitivity is growing.
Local authorities frequently have to deal with complaints from the public about pesticide use. Officers should be wary of dismissing claims of health problems, but should try to find constructive ways forward. The Pesticides Trust can help with information, shared experiences and support for victims.
For more details contact Alison Craig at the Pesticides Trust [now PAN UK].
[This
article first appeared in Pesticides News No. 44,
June 1999, page 17]