Surveillance for pesticide-related disease.

Public health surveillance for acute pesticide intoxications is discussed. Explanation of the goals, components and functions of population-based surveillance is provided with reference to key informational sources. Both a state-based pesticide intoxication program and a nearly nationwide poison control center data base program are used to illustrate the potential uses inherent in these types of system. There is additional discussion on the investigation of disease clusters, the use of complementary exposure monitoring data and confidentiality issues.