General Populations

The general population is not likely to be exposed to high levels of malathion. Exposure to malathion predominantly occurs through ingestion of contaminated food or water. People living near areas where malathion is sprayed have a greater risk of being exposed through dermal contact with contaminated plants and soils, inhalation of mist formed during application, and ingestion of residues in food or water. Occupational Populations Workers involved in the production, formulation, handling, and application of malathion are likely to have the highest levels of exposure. Farm workers who enter treated fields prior to the passage of the appropriate restricted entry intervals may also be exposed to high levels of malathion. Toxicokinetics Ingested and dermally applied malathion are readily absorbed, but little is known about the fate of inhaled malathion. Once absorbed, malathion can distribute to many organs and tissues. It is broken down into malaoxon in the liver. Malathion and its metabolites do not tend to accumulate in the body and are excreted in the urine within a few days