Abstract |
Pesticides are ubiquitous in our society in both agricultural and urban environments. We use pesticides in our homes, schools, in our workplaces, and in our communities. Due to the widespread dissemination of pesticides, and the potential for related illness and injury (especially among farm workers and pesticide handlers), health care providers should be prepared to recognize, manage and prevent pesticide related health conditions in their patients and communities. Communities expect that their primary care providers will be prepared to deal with pesticide-related health conditions, as well as other environmental-related illnesses, but oftentimes they are not. This report, an Implementation Plan for the National Strategies for Health Care Providers: Pesticides Initiative sets out a strategic direction for the nation to improve the recognition, management, and prevention of pesticide-related health conditions. |