Pesticides and Attentional Problems
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition which now affects three to seven percent of school-aged children, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That is an astronomically large number of children.
Now a report from the HealthDay Reporter indicates that exposure to high levels of pesticides, commonly found on berries, celery and other produce, could raise the odds for children developing this condition.
In the study, pesticide exposure and ADHD were studied in more than 1,100 American children aged 8 to 15. Children with higher pesticide levels in their urine were more likely to have ADHD. And the higher the level of exposure [as measured by metabolites in the urine], the higher were the odds of having ADHD. The results, which will appear in the June issue of Pediatrics, are careful to state that the link is not proven, but they do urge parents to reduce, as much as possible, any exposure to pesticides.
Previous research had shown an association between both prenatal and postnatal pesticide exposure and developmental problems in young children. So the evidence continues to build.
There are, of course, other causes of ADHD including a family history of the condition and other prenatal risks such as tobacco exposure and alcohol exposure.
In terms of the pesticide issue, several actions are possible. They include buying organic, buying at farmers' markets and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming them.
For more information on shielding kids from pesticides, you can go to http://www.epa.gov/
