Epidemiologic Investigation of Health Effects in Air Force Personnel Following Exposures to Herbicides. Summary. 1987 Followup Examination Results

摘要

The report represents the results of the health assessment of the 955 Ranch Hands and the 1,299 Comparisons who participated in the 1987 followup examination of the Air Force Health Study. The purpose of the study is to determine whether long-term health effects exist and can be attributed to occupational exposure to herbicides. The Ranch Hands continue to manifest slightly more abnormalities than the comparisons, although the results do not suggest an adverse effect due to exposure to herbicides and their dioxin contaminant. Reanalysis using dioxin body burden levels and continued medical surveillance are indicated. In summary, there is not sufficient evidence at this time to support a causal relationship between herbicide exposure and adverse health in the Ranch Hand group.