Epidemiology
Intentional self-poisoning with pesticides causes around 110,000 to 168,000 deaths each year worldwide, and accounts for up to 20% of global suicides.[1][2] Although precise data on ingested agents is often lacking, organophosphates and other anticholinesterases likely account for around half of these pesticide poisonings and deaths.[3]
The incidence of organophosphate poisoning depends on the extent of use and ease of access. In the UK and other developed countries, relatively few people are involved in agricultural activity, and occupational health and safety standards are usually enforced, making serious or fatal poisoning uncommon.[4]
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