Organophosphates (OPs) are pesticides that poison the nervous system. They inactivate a key enzyme, acetylcholinesterase, essential for proper nerve function. They were brought in to replace the older organochlorine (OC) pesticides such as DDT which were more persistent in the environment. However, OPs are far more acutely toxic putting regular users at greater risk of developing the symptoms associated with OP poisoning.
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