asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the effects of exposure to diazinon on the brain, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys in humans; and what research has been conducted into the chronic effects on those organs in subjects who have survived exposure. [HL3419]

The effects of diazinon poisoning in humans have been reported in a number of clinical studies following accidental or suicidal ingestion of diazinon. The major effects observed are related to excessive stimulation of acetylcholine receptors, which results in changes in the function of the brain, heart, respiratory tract and other organs. Changes in liver enzymes have also been reported. Patients who survive a severe acute poisoning crisis sometimes develop muscle weakness beginning one to four days later and this has occasionally resulted in fatal respiratory failure. There is some evidence that severe poisoning with organophosphates, such as diazinon, can lead to persistent impairment of brain function but effects on other organs have not been reported.