Agrichemical hazards in the South African farming sector.

Agrichemicals are used extensively in agriculture in South Africa and throughout the world and may present serious health hazards. A review is made of their acute, sub-acute and chronic health effects with attention to the teratogenic and carcinogenic potential. Assessment of agrichemical toxicity is critically discussed. The limited data available on agrichemical poisoning in South Africa suggest that agrichemical poisoning is significantly under-reported and is potentially a major public health problem. Implications for the development of health policy affecting farm workers are outlined.