The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: While the negative effects of tobacco use are well known, the effects of tobacco production are less well-studied. This presentation first summarizes current knowledge about the occupational and environmental health consequences of tobacco production for agricultural workers and their family members. It then outlines research needed to better understand these effects.

Methods: The literature documenting the effects of tobacco production is scattered, and not always published in peer-reviewed sources. We undertook a systematic search using (1) a literature file based on over a decade of research on the health effects of tobacco work, (2) searches of computerized data bases (Medline, Science Citation Index, Agricola), (3) a review of new sources cited in literature uncovered through data base searches, and (4) professional contacts with others working on the effects of tobacco production.

Results: The health effects of tobacco production include nicotine poisoning (green tobacco sickness), pesticide exposure, respiratory effects, musculoskeletal and other injuries. Most research has focused on nicotine poisoning. Research is needed on the effects of tobacco work on the health of women and children through exposure to nicotine and pesticides, the effects of chronic nicotine exposure on all tobacco workers, the neurotoxic effects of pesticide exposure and its relationship with mental health, and the effects of growing tobacco on using tobacco.