None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
Aims: To develop the methodology for point of care (POC) testing to determine the level of exposure to organophosphates (OP’s) by western Victorian farmers. Significance: This methodology will test for cholinesterase activity (enzyme that is inhibited by organophosphates) and provide the basis for future research work by identifying the potential chemical exposure pathways of individuals most at risk in farming communities. Expected Outcomes: The study will provide a validated methodology for cholinesterase activity measurement in farmers and the integration of this testing in farmer health checks. Importantly, it will highlight insecticide contact as a risk for farmers, leading to further research to quantify pesticide exposure both on the farm and in the home of farming families.
Interventions
Farmers, farm workers and farm contractors who are exposed to organophosphate pesticides.
By measuring the activity of the enzyme cholinesterase, exposure to organophosphates can be identified. We are particularly interested in working with farmers (male and female) who are currently farming, working with agricultural chemicals. Enzyme activity will be monitored every 2-3 weeks over a 12 week period.
Each participant will receive a health check during the first visit including:
Measurements:
Farmers, farm workers and farm contractors who are exposed to organophosphate pesticides. By measuring the activity of the enzyme cholinesterase, exposure to organophosphates can be identified. We are particularly interested in working with farmers (male and female) who are currently farming, working with agricultural chemicals. Enzyme activity will be monitored every 2-3 weeks over a 12 week period. Each participant will receive a health check during the first visit including: Measurements: Height, weight, waist and hip circumference, body fat percentage, blood pressure, pulse rate. Capillary blood sample : Collected using a finger prick, will test for : Fasting blood glucose, cholesterol and cholinesterase levels . Health and Chemical usage survey: Chemical use and well being questionnaire
Sponsors
Deakin University
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to 75 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
Farmers and farm workers:Participants must be routinely working with agrichemicals , particularly those containing organophosphate (AChE inhibiting chemicals), Have not had a previous chemical known incident, are not suffering from a known chronic disorder, not taking anti-inflammatory drugs or supplements. Participants will need to report usage/exposure to OP throughout the course of the study. Be competent to decide and have capacity to consent to participate in the study and attend a health assessment. Live in south west Victoria. Non - farmers: Participants should not be living or working on a farm and not routinely using agrichemicals.
Exclusion criteria
Participants that are under the age of 18 yrs. Participants who have a recent known chemical known incident, are suffering from a known chronic disorder or are taking anti-inflammatory drugs or supplements.
Outcome results
None listed