Chromosomal aberrations in human lymphocytes from two groups of workers occupationally exposed to pesticides in Syria

The cytogenetic effects of pesticides used for hygienic purposes or pest control of crops were studied in two groups of highly chronic or acutely exposed workers (sprayers and dealers) in Damascus, Syria, using the peripheral human lymphocyte system and analyzing chromosomal aberrations. In general, the effects were small, but in the hygiene pesticide-sprayer group that was tested at the beginning, middle, and end of the spraying season, an increase in chromatid breaks was observed and at the end of spraying season it reached threefold the mean chromatid breaks of control group. The group composed of dealers and of people working in quality control of pesticides, which was studied once, showed a number of chromatid breaks similar to that of the sprayer group at the end of spraying season. (C) 1995 Academic Press, Inc.