Insecticide can be harmful, especially to children.
In 1962, the release of the book Silent Spring by Rachel Carson showed the world the potentially deadly effects of the insecticide DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) on the ecosystem and on humans. Since that time, DDT has been banned, using instead insecticides with fewer drawbacks. That being said, there are still many potential risks to using insecticide chemicals that should be considered whenever using pest-control products.
The Ecosystem
When pesticides work as they are supposed to, insects are harmed, but no other animals, plants or water supplies are contaminated. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to plan for every possible contingency, and with the factors of weather like rain and wind, spraying an insecticide can lead to the ecosystem being affected. Insecticides can become a part of the water through weather, which can lead to an organism drinking in the pesticide. When that organism is eaten by another organism, this leads to a higher percentage of the chemical by the process of bioaccumulation. Even if a few animals are contaminated, the interdependence of the food chain may lead to the entire chain being affected, especially those at the top: humans.
Children and Development
A CBS News report stated that children are potentially exposed to more insecticides than parents are aware of, and at the same time, they are more vulnerable to their effects. This is especially true for pregnant women, as developing children in the womb may have key nutrients and hormones disrupted due to the presence of insecticides. This can lead to an increase in birth defects. Other potential problems that insecticides can cause children are neurotoxicity, asthma, brain damage and cancer.
Poisoning
If too much of a chemical has been ingested, this can cause a person to become poisoned. Different chemicals found in insecticides can lead to different symptoms in humans according to a Walgreens' report. Pyrethrin poisoning can lead to difficulty breathing, redness and swelling of the skin, convulsions and at worst a coma. Paradichlorobenzene poisoning can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea and muscle spasms. Carbamate or organophosphate poisoning may lead to increased urination, breathing difficulty, gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches and convulsions. If touched without gloves and without washing the hands afterward, organophosphate can cause paralysis and death. If any of these symptoms occur, it is best to call a local emergency number immediately.
Potential Long-Term Effects
A study reported by HealthDay connects long-term insecticide use with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Chebucto sites potential long-term effects such as cancers, genetic damage, neuropathy, decreased fertility and increases in stillbirths. Dr. Mattison of the March of Dimes has stated that other problems like respiratory agitation, confusion and depression may also be linked to ingesting chemicals of insecticides. More studies need to be completed to determine the long-term effects of small exposure to insecticides.
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