New Pesticides, Old Problems: Despite Warnings, Use during Pregnancy Persists
2008
Pesticide Use During Pregnancy
Sample size: 511
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Weinhold Bob
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
How does the use of pesticides during pregnancy change after retail sales restrictions?
Conclusion
Despite restrictions on certain pesticides, their use persists among pregnant women, and replacement pesticides are increasingly used.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found that use of replacement pesticides is steadily increasing.
- Chlorpyrifos and diazinon were found in more than 98% of air samples.
- At least 85% of the women reported using pesticides throughout the study.
Takeaway
Even though some pesticides were banned, many pregnant women still use pesticides, and new ones are being used more often.
Methodology
Pregnant women wore air samplers for 48 hours and reported pesticide use and pest sightings.
Limitations
Data on health effects of replacement pesticides at measured concentrations are limited.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant inner-city women.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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