Pesticides are formulated to kill things–insects, rodents, weeds, fungi, and microorganisms. Regardless of what the packaging says, anything that kills plants and animals poses a potential threat to humans. Here are some of the hidden dangers of pesticides you need to be aware of.
Hidden Dangers Of Pesticides
Pesticides kill insects. Herbicides kill weeds, bacteria, and fungi. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists them all as pesticides. They are everywhere because they are instrumental in growing the food that feeds everyone on the planet.
A 2020 US Geological Survey found at least five pesticides in 90% of the water samples they tested–including groundwater. Almost all fruits and vegetables you buy have pesticide residues on them. Some have the residue of over a dozen different pesticides.
Home gardeners often use chemical pesticides instead of natural homemade pesticides that work because the commercial products are easy, quick, effective, and long-lasting. Long-term exposure to toxic pesticides increases the possibility of suffering from the following diseases.
- Respiratory Problems – Can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma attacks–sometimes severe.
- Cancer – Some pesticides are carcinogenic (cancer-causing). They can damage the cellular structures in humans–leading to the growth of cancerous cells. Glyphosate–found in Roundup–has been linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma but not conclusively.
- Neurological Problems – Organophosphate pesticides can disrupt nerve function–increasing the risk of long-term brain and nervous system damage–increasing the possibility of Alzheimer’s and/or Parkinson’s diseases.
- Hormonal Problems – Can interfere with endocrine function causing hormonal imbalances. Long-term exposure leads to fertility problems and reproductive problems. Pesticides can increase long-term developmental problems in children.
- Skin Irritation – Cause irritation, burns, and an allergic reaction. Pesticides may be absorbed through the skin.
- Headaches.
- Nausea.
- Immune System Suppression – Makes it harder to fight off infections.
Pets and Pesticides
Pets are particularly susceptible to pesticide poisoning in gardens and on lawns because they are closer to the plants and grass, rub and roll on it, and have less body weight to absorb pesticides. Symptoms of pet pesticide poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, seizures, and even death.
How Do You Get Pesticide Poisoning?
Pesticides are formulated for quick and easy absorption or ingestion into insects and weeds. They are easily absorbed by humans in various ways. Pesticides are often stored in body fat and are not easily excreted.
- Ingestion. From eating unwashed fruits and vegetables.
- Skin Absorption. From applying pesticides.
- Eyes. Wind-borne or rubbing it into the eyes.
- Inhalation. From applying pesticides or being exposed on windy days.
