Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Research
Healthnotes Newswire (August 19, 2010)—As back-to-school season starts, many parents are turning their
thoughts to supporting their kids’ success in any way possible. A new report in Pediatrics suggests that exposure
to certain pesticides may increase the risk of attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, so
families addressing this condition through other interventions can add certain environmental steps to their bag of
tricks.
Pesticides are commonly found in our daily environment. Food, drinking water, and the home are common
sources, and dietary sources are the most common exposure source for infants and children, according to the
authors of the new study. This study found that organophosphates—specific chemicals found in some
pesticides—were more likely to be higher in the urine of children who were diagnosed with ADHD (119 out of
1,139 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey).
The Environmental Protection Agency states that children may be at particular risk from pesticide exposure
because their developing brains are sensitive to such exposure and because many of their activities are closer to
the ground, where pesticides are found. The study authors also point out that children have less detoxifying
enzymes to clear pesticides from their system compared with adults. Because of this increased risk it is
important to find ways to reduce and minimize children’s pesticide exposure. Here are a few tips:
• Buy organic food if possible. While organic foods may not be completely pesticide-free, the exposure is
generally less than non-organically grown foods. Eating a variety of foods may also help avoid excessive
exposure to one type of pesticide.
• Wash fruits and vegetables. It may not eliminate pesticide exposure, but this extra step can reduce exposure.
Peeling produce may also help, though doing so may reduce the amount of nutrients gained from eating.
• Clean your kids. After playing outdoors, it is important for kids to wash up and clean off dirt and chemicals.
Some households also ask people to take their shoes off at the door so as not to track in chemicals on floors and
carpets.
• Be educated about pesticide products. It is important to be educated about the products you use around the
home and to become aware of eco-friendly products with natural pesticides, which may help reduce exposure to
toxins. The Environmental Protection Agency website offers a lot of information about how to protect kids from
potentially toxic pesticides. When using any type of pesticide, follow the label instructions for safe handling and
disposal.
• Ask schools to protect kids. Parents can get further involved in helping protect kids from pesticide exposure by
asking schools to use environmentally- and child-friendly products in the building and on the playground.
Keep in mind that while the authors of the new study suggest an association between pesticides and ADHD, they
cannot prove from this study alone that pesticide exposure is the cause.
(Pediatrics 2010;125:e1270–e1277)
Jane Hart, MD, board-certified in internal medicine, serves in a variety of professional roles including consultant,
journalist, and educator. Dr. Hart, a Clinical Instructor at Case Medical School in Cleveland, Ohio, writes
extensively about health and wellness and a variety of other topics for nationally recognized organizations,
websites, and print publications. Sought out for her expertise in the areas of integrative and preventive
medicine, she is frequently quoted by national and local media. Dr. Hart is a professional lecturer for healthcare
professionals, consumers, and youth and is a regular corporate speaker.
Copyright © 2010 Aisle7. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of the Aisle7® content is expressly
prohibited without the prior written consent of Aisle7. Healthnotes Newswire is for educational or informational
purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or provide treatment for any condition. If you have any concerns
about your own health, you should always consult with a healthcare professional. Aisle7 shall not be liable for
any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. AISLE7 is a registered
trademark of Aisle7.