Objective The characteristics of pesticide poisoning cases reported in Pengzhou City was analyzed to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of pesticide poisoning.

Methods Data of the reported pesticide poisoning cases in Pengzhou City during 2010-2017 was abstracted from the network reporting system, and their demographic characteristics and poisoning causes were summarized.

Results Totally 1 637 cases were reported and among them 59 were death cases. The average age of poisoning cases was (41.95 ±19.33) years old, and 1 574 cases were due to non-occupational exposure(96.15%). The cases aged with 30-45 years accounted for 25.11%. The male -to-female ratio of all cases was 1:1.06, but most cases due to non-occupational pesticide exposure were females. Most cases were reported in spring and summer, and most poisoning cases were caused by herbicides and organophosphates. There was no statistically significant difference of fatality rate, between occupational and non-occupational exposure, male and female, in different years or seasons (P>0.05). It seemed the aged cases had a higher fatality rate(P < 0.05)and the fatality caused by insecticides and herbicides was higher(P < 0.05).

Conclusion The characteristics of pesticide poisoning cases in Pengzhou City were similar to the cases reported in Sichuan Province. We should strengthen the management of pesticides in rural areas and pay more attention to women and elders.