aseligmann
Minimizing Children's Exposure to Pesticides is Prudent
Do pesticides cause special problems for children? A new review of a series of research studies completed during the last decade suggests that the answer to this question is yes, and that we need to be sure that children are being exposed to pesticides as little as possible. read more...
Permethrin and Hormones
In recent years, scientists have become increasing concerned about the ability of pesticides and other chemicals to disrupt our hormone systems. Hormones are chemical messengers that control importnat processes like growth, development, and sexual function so these concerns are significant. New research shows that the common household insecticide – permethrin – can disrupt hormones. read more...
Exposure to Fungicides Linked with Nerve Damage
Most researchers agree that high levels of exposure to certain pesticides damage nerves, but there has been more controversy about whether long-term moderate exposure to pesticides can damage our nervous system. A new review compiles research showing that this kind of exposure to insecticides, fungicides, and fumigants is linked with nerve damage. The researchers noted the links with fungicide use, as these were unexpected. read more...
Poisonings from Rodent Baits
Thousands of children are poisoned every year from accidentally eating rodent baits. A report compiled annually from incidents reported to poison control centers shows just how big this problem is. read more...
Common Herbicide Linked with Pregnancy Problems and Hormone Disruption
New research often finds that pesticides cause unexpected effects on our health. A recent study of the commonly used herbicide Roundup not only found unexpected effects, but also found that the combination of ingredients in Roundup was more toxic than glyphosate, the so-called "active" ingredient in Roundup. read more...
Ontario Family Physicians Systematic Review
Is there solid scientific evidence to show that pesticide exposure is harmful to human health? Sometimes this question is thought to have a controversial answer, especially among health professionals. However, the Ontario College of Family Physicians just completed a year-long systematic review of published research and concluded that there are "consistent links to serious illnesses." read more...
Lessons from the Burden of Toxic Chemicals We Carry In our Bodies
We are all carrying a surprising number of toxic chemicals in our bodies, according to a number of studies including some conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But what is the source of this exposure? What can we do to prevent it? A new assessment concludes that much of the exposure comes from products (including pesticides) and building materials that we use in our homes, workplaces, and the other indoor places where we spend our time. Since these exposures are mostly not regulated by environmental laws, we need to protect ourselves by using nontoxic alternatives. read more...
How Are Children Exposed to Household Insecticides?
Activities like playing on carpets, putting toys in the mouth, and relaxing on the couch with a baby bottle are common ways for toddlers and children to spend time. Some of these activities mean that kids are more likely to be exposed to household insecticides than adults. A recent study looked at which children's activities are most closely associated with pesticide exposure and found that the amount of time young children drinking from baby bottles was linked to the amount of pesticides exposure the children received following a household insecticide treatment. read more...
Preemergent Herbicides on Home Landscapes
In order to achieve a perfect lawn, many people use 'preemergent' herbicides. These are applied before weeds come up in the spring and prevent weed development. read more...
Western Region of the International Plant Propagators Society Annual Meeting
Bellingham Washington, September 8-11, 2010, the Western Region of the International Plant Propagators Society hosts their annual meeting; Bold Visions for Plant Production, “Basics to Innovation”. read more...
