Morbidity Due to Non-Poisoning

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Abstract
The popular mystique of poisons aggravates dysfunction caused by toxic substances and provokes dysfunction in the absence of biological effects. This discussion identifies the mechanisms involved in order to facilitate prevention and appropriate treatment. Resolution of the problem of [human] morbidity associated with toxic substances but not resulting from the direct biological effects of these substances depends primarily on educational efforts. The psychic contributions to morbidity must be recognized and dealt with as early as possible in the clinical course with appropriate chemotherapy or psychotherapy, or both. The longer the psychic dysfunction is ignored, the more resistant to therapy it becomes. Terms such as compensation neurosis or crock serve only to obscure the real defects. The patient who perceives himself as sick is sick in the sense that he is suffering and needs relief. Suspicion and paranoia among a work force concerning the health effects of chemical substances must be met with educational programs concerning chemicals in the workplace.

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