This study used a historical sampling framework from regional hospital/clinc facilities located in northeast North Dakota.  The facilities serve both rural and urban areas, provide services for approximately 50% of the market, and have a healthcare service area of 17 counties.  The study county is representative of the state in that it has a high volume of agricultural crop production and pesticide use.

 Healthcare data were collected retrospectively for a five year period (2000-2004) for all occurrences of contact. National databases were used to determine percentage of treated acres and the amount of pesticide applied per year in North Dakota from 1990 to 2002. This data was used to graph statewide trends for pesticide exposure. The number of treated acres for each pesticide was determined by agricultural district using survey data for the 2000 crop season.

This study centered on ICD-9 codes recommended by Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Descriptive statistics illustrated the population age, gender, and diagnosis. Health data were then reviewed in light of pesticide usage in the geographical area and current literature. Patterns were illuminated and isolated as these the pesticide and healthcare datasets were merged.