Where It Comes From
Agricultural spraying and treated fields; residues on treated crops; runoff to nearby water [2][3].
How You Are Exposed
Working with or near pesticide mixing/spraying; drift to nearby homes; contact with treated plants/soil; eating food with residues; drinking water near farm areas [2][3][4].
Why It Matters
Can cause headache, nausea, sweating, muscle twitching, confusion, and breathing problems; severe cases may lead to seizures or respiratory failure. WHO classifies it as “moderately hazardous” (Class II) [1][4].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers/applicators and their families; people living near treated fields; children and pregnant people; those with respiratory or neurologic conditions [3][4].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow label directions and stay out of treated areas until re‑entry times end; use protective gear when handling; close windows and avoid outdoor activity during nearby spraying; wash hands and work clothes separately; rinse/scrub/peel produce to reduce residues [3][5].
References
- [1]WHO. The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard (2019).
- [2]FAO/WHO JMPR. Profenofos toxicological and residue evaluation (2007).
- [3]U.S. EPA. Profenofos Human Health Risk Assessment for Registration Review.
- [4]ATSDR/CDC. Medical Management Guidelines: Cholinesterase Inhibitors (Organophosphate Pesticides).
- [5]U.S. EPA. Food and Pesticides: Steps to Reduce Exposure (consumer guidance).