New study: EXPOSURE TO MORE THAN ONE PESTICIDE “SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASES” RISK OF CHILDHOOD CANCER
A NEW STUDY HAS FOUND THAT:
EXPOSURE TO MORE THAN ONE PESTICIDE
“SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASES” RISK OF CHILDHOOD CANCER
What made this study different than past studies is that researchers examined the association between exposures to multiple commonly used pesticides and the most prevalent childhood cancers, whereas
Most earlier research has focused on the toxicity of individual pesticides.
But, the reality is that we are never just exposed to one single chemical every day.
The findings? Alarming
The researchers found that being exposed to a 10% mixture of pesticides increased the rate of brain cancer by 36%, overall pediatric cancer by 30% and leukemia by 23%. These happen to be some of the most common childhood cancers
Among the pesticides considered in the mixture, herbicides contributed the most toward these outcomes
This study was conducted by the University of Nebraska and looked at 22 years ( 2.500 pediatric cases) of cancer data in Nebraska. Nebraska is a big agricultural state, where the large scale use of pesticides is common. The state has the second-highest rates of childhood cancer in the U.S.
While agricultural communities face the greatest risks of cancer, pesticide exposure through food is an underestimated danger to children.
Pesticides are particularly harmful to children due to their smaller size and because they are still growing, which means the health risks can be higher at a lower level of exposure.
Ultimately, whether a child ( or adult) will develop cancer will likely depend on the interactions between genetic factors and environmental agents
HOW TO LOWER YOUR EXPOSURE TO PESTICIDES
We can be exposed to pesticides throughout the day via multiple sources like:
food
water
lawn care
neighboring lawn care
schools
By identifying where pesticides can be used in our daily routine, we can then take steps to reduce her exposure.
Here are some tips:
Usa a multi stage or reverse osmosis water filtration system. I like:
Pure Effects undersink 3 or 4 stage filter ( we had this in our prior to homes)
Aquatru countertop reverse osmosis filter ( we had the smaller glass carafe version in Barcelona and now have the larger model)
Eat organic foods
Eat less processed foods
Consider integrative pest management at home instead of resorting to chemicals ( here is a post on how to get rid of spiders and ants without harsh chemicals)
Adopt a “no shoe” policy- recent research has found that pesticides brought or tracked into the home represent a major source of exposure for kids.
If you live in or near an agriculture area, consider investing in a high-quality HEPA filter for your home and often clean outdoor surfaces especially those where kids play.
My preferred air filter is the Austin Air ( as an authorized dealer I can offer 10% off this month. Email: 3littleplums@gmail.com )
If your school or local park uses pesticides on their lawn, find out when these will be applied and avoid the area at least for 48 hours if you can. Washing hands after playing at any park or school is always a good idea to reduce her exposure to many different types of chemicals and more. ( here is a post on alternatives to chemical weed killers )
Living near a golf course can also be a source of additional pesticide exposure. According to a report by Toxic Fairways it was calculated that golf courses can apply 50,000 pounds of pesticides in one year… If you live near a golf course, ask for when they are using pesticides on their field and close your windows when it happens and clean outdoor furniture and or toys afterwards.
Sources: https://doi.org/10.1029/2024GH001236
https://gcmonline.com/course/environment/news/pesticide-environmental-risk-golf-courses