Pesticide Exposure in Young Children from Agricultural Communities
Author Information
Author(s): Bradman Asa, Castorina Rosemary, Barr Dana Boyd, Chevrier Jonathan, Harnly Martha E., Eisen Ellen A., McKone Thomas E., Harley Kim, Holland Nina, Eskenazi Brenda
Primary Institution: Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley
Hypothesis
Exposure factors will vary over time given the changes in diet, behavior, and family practices that occur as children age.
Conclusion
Children living in agricultural areas are likely exposed to organophosphorus pesticides from multiple pathways, with dietary intake being a significant source of exposure.
Supporting Evidence
- Children living in agricultural areas had higher urinary pesticide metabolite levels compared to those in non-agricultural areas.
- DMAP metabolite levels increased with age and were positively associated with daily servings of fruits and vegetables.
- Exposure determinants varied by age and included dietary intake and proximity to agricultural fields.
Takeaway
Kids living near farms can get pesticides in their bodies from the food they eat and where they live, especially as they grow up.
Methodology
Urine samples were collected from children at 6, 12, and 24 months, and analyzed for organophosphorus pesticide metabolites using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to loss to follow-up and non-differential exposure misclassification.
Limitations
The study's reliance on non-specific DAP metabolites may not accurately reflect exposure to specific parent OP compounds.
Participant Demographics
Participants included children from agricultural communities, with a significant proportion of mothers being agricultural workers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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