Aсute chemical trauma in war (to the 105th anniversary of the use of medical protection against the damaging eff ects of toxic substances)

Abstract

Chemical warfare agents, especially organophosphates, pose a serious threat when used in war. Despite the extensive experience gained over the 105 years since the fi rst use of medical protection against military poisoning, the system of medical protection requires further improvement and development. The enormous eff orts made by the Soviet Union in the pre-war period (1930s–1940s) prevented the intentions of the nazi Germany to use toxic substances during the Velikaya otechestvennaya voyna. The continuing danger of using chemical weapons in combat, as well as terrorist threats, necessitates maintaining a high level of preparedness to prevent and eliminate the medical consequences of exposure to toxic substances.