Organochlorine pesticide residues in adipose tissue of Mexicans

Concentrations of organochlorine insecticide residues such as DDT, DDE, γ- and β-HCH were determined in human adipose tissue samples obtained during autopsies from urban and suburban areas of Veraeruz city, the state of Veracruz and out-of-state areas, collected during 1988 and 1991. The mean levels of total DDT, which constitutes the predominant accumulated pesticide, decreased from 17.45 mg/kg in 1988 to 14.06 mg/kg in 1991. The highest levels of total DDT were determined in persons from suburban areas of Veracruz city and among persons over 51 years old with the highest levels of contamination observed in patients dying of cardiovascular disorders.