Pest controllers: A high-risk group for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?

Abstract

Introduction. Based on the assumption that professional groups with frequent chemical exposure are at an increased risk for developing Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), a sample of 45 professional pest controllers was investigated. Methods. The examination of the pest controllers consisted of a physical and laboratory examination with urine screening for pyrethroid metabolites, a psychiatric interview, a neuropsychological test battery, and a chemical sensitivity questionnaire. Results. Persistent or serious work related health problems and chemical sensitivity were not reported. In urine, cis-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (Br₂CA) was detected in 11%, 4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (F-PBA) in 7%. 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) exceeded the reference range in 9%, cis- and trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethyl-cyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (Cl₂CA) in 20%. Increased liver enzymes and blood count deviations were rather common. 38% had psychiatric disorders. With few exceptions, neuropsychological testing results were normal. Conclusions. The results do not support the hypothesis that work-related insecticide exposure promotes chemical sensitivity.

Keywords: :

• Pest controllers
• Pyrethroids
• Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
• MCS
• Psychiatric
• Neuropsychological

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the pest controllers and pest control companies that participated in our investigation for their good cooperation. This study was supported by a grant from the Bavarian State Ministry for Environment, Health and Consumer Protection.

Notes

26. Levsen K, Berger-Preiß E, Idel H, Leng G, Ranft U. Verbundforschungsvorhaben “Pyrethroide in Innenräumen,” Studie 1: Die Belastung des Menschen durch Permethrin aus Wollteppichen und Wollteppichböden. Abschlussbericht Hannover, März 2001, 2001.

27. Idel H, Leng G, Levsen K, Berger-Preiß E, Ranft U. Verbundforschungsvorhaben “Pyrethroide in Innenräumen,” Studie 2: Pyrethroidexposition in Innenräumen: Bio-, Effekt- und Innenraum-Monitoring. Abschlussbericht Düsseldorf, März 2001, 2001.