7.8 Topic of Interest


Neurotoxicity from pesticides in children

The local, state, and federal agencies that play a role in  addressing pesticides are Contra Costa Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM). In looking through the 2016 IPM report, the department of Contra Costa has reduced pesticide use from 154 lbs. of active ingredients to 76 lbs. This reduction in pesticide use is due largely to reducing weed management. Every month, the pesticide data report is reviewed and sent to the County Agriculture Commissioner then to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR).

In the state of California, pesticides include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, miticides, rodenticides, plant growth regulators, defoliants, desicants and adjuvants.  In a study conducted by Shelton et. al (2014), California was number one in agriculture production in the county. Many studies show relationship between commonly used pesticides and abnormal/impaired neurological development in children. At CDPR, there are numerous programs that conduct surveillance/monitoring, inspection, enforcement, licensing to put the environment and Californians' health first. There are two sections in Pest Management devoted to schools and child care. CDPR also provides reports of pesticide residue on fresh produce.

At the federal level, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a pesticide program that contains a wide range of categories that encompass the protection of health and the environment, pest control, and pesticide regulation. From topics such as protecting pollinators, managing pests in schools, to assessing pesticide risk and tolerances.

Lastly another agency that provides information on pesticides/ neurotoxicity of pesticides in children is the CDC. The CDC contains information about preventing unintentional poisoning, pesticide illness and injury surveillance, and information about occupational safety and health which includes relevant studies on pesticide toxicity in children.

Comments

  1. Krissy PamatmatOctober 20, 2017 at 2:16 PM

    Hi Mayra,

    Your topic sounds really interesting. Even though some pesticides are already banned, there are still other pesticides that can be harmful to people's health, especially to children. I think the agencies you found play an important role about addressing and regulating pesticides. I'm sure you will be able to find some good information.

    - Krissy

    ReplyDelete

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