Written question asked by Countess of Mar (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Earl Howe (Conservative) on Monday, 1 November 2010.

Organophosphates

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what is their assessment of research indicating reduction in bone formation at tissue and cellular level in younger male sheep farmers, Gulf War veterans, and airline pilots, all of whom have been exposed to organophosphates (OPs); and whether they will issue advice based on such findings to medical practitioners treating patients who have had exposures to OPs as part of their osteoporosis prevention programme.

Answer: The Health Protection Agency advises that no specific evaluation of reduction in bone formation in younger male sheep farmers, Gulf War veterans and airline pilots has been made. The independent Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT) undertook a review of the epidemiological literature pertaining to airline pilots. No evidence of effects on bone formation in this occupational group was retrieved. The COT is undertaking a review of organophosphates to update the review published in 1999.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 2902; 721 c362WA
Session: 2010-12
Subjects: Aviation Crew Health hazards Iraq-Kuwait conflict Farmers Research Sheep Organophosphates Osteoporosis Veterans
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk