Approaches to Reduce Intentional and Suicidal Poisonings

Snicide deaths and impnlsive acts of self-harm associated with pesticides have cansed increasing global concern. It has been reported that deliberate ingestion associated with pesticides has resnlted in 2-3 million hospital admissions and about 220,000 deaths each year. In recent years, pesticides have been used in a spate of suicides in some parts of India (Andhra Pradesh). Pest resistance and resurgence (mainly on cotton crops) and abuse of pesticides because of lack of strict market regulation of toxic chemicals like pesticides have been found to be the causative factors of human poisonings. 

The easy availability of common pesticides helps to facilitate suicide and self-harm by children and others. It has been reported that in China about 65% of pesticide suicides use items stored in the home and close to household materials. The importance of broad-based commitment from industry, nongovermnental organizations (NGOs), and national and international health and regulatory organizations is highlighted. 

Some elementary practices have been suggested to reduce pesticide poisoning, if it is not possible to completely stop such chemical hazards, among farm workers  

Restrict the availability of pesticides (especially class 1 and class 2 pesticides) to users unless qualified, trained, and certified operators supervise the pest control operations. 

Store supplies of pesticides in a proper security facility. 

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