Health Effects of Common Lawn Pesticides

 

     Beyond Pesticides, the National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides has printed a summary of related independent studies titled, Health Effects of 30 Commonly Used Lawn Pesticides.  Findings link different pesticide exposures to cancer (i.e. leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma), endocrine disruption, infertility, neurotoxicity, kidney and liver damage, birth defects, miscarriage, memory, asthma, Parkinson’s disease, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism.  It is disturbing to compare the active ingredients of pesticides used in the places that surround us in our daily lives to the health effects of some herbicides, insecticides and fungicides. 

    

     The findings are even more troubling for young children.   The developmental characteristics of children like faster metabolisms and developing organs play a role in their reduced ability to detoxify or excrete poisons.  Their behavioral characteristics of floor and ground contact and frequent hand to mouth behaviors make them more susceptible. 

    

     Findings also document the health effects of lawn pesticides on pets and wildlife.  Beyond Pesticides has also compiled studies on pesticides and the environment in their publication, Environmental Effects of Commonly Used Lawn Pesticides.  Both reports and more are available on beyondpesticides.org’s  website. 

    

     Knowledge of the health and environmental effects of commonly used pesticides is contributing to more people asking questions and seeking the use of safer alternatives like organic lawn care.  Especially pesticide use in and around  drinking water sources, food, schools, playgrounds, work, churches, parks, sports fields, golf courses, gardens, lawns and other places beginning at home.

 

Earth Friendly Land Care Inc.