Understanding and Lowering Your Exposure to Pesticides

by: Marcia Barr, BSCE, Director of environmental stewardship, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh - Previously served as Co-Director of Environmental Assessment and Control, CEO-UPCI

The "-cide" in pesticide means "to kill," so it should come as no surprise that pesticides can be harmful to humans and pets if not used properly. Nevertheless, disinfectants and antibacterial soaps are broadly and fashionably marketed on television as necessary household supplies, perhaps giving consumers a false sense of safety. About three-quarters of all liquid soaps and one-third of bar soaps now contain fungi and bacteria-killing chemicals, such as triclosan (PDF), a pesticide approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Antibacterial pesticides also have been added to lotions, cutting boards, toys, toothbrushes, toothpastes, even socks and underwear. There is no evidence that these agents prevent disease, but there are growing concerns that they can damage the environment and promote resistance to bacteria, viruses and fungi. ¹

Pesticides are sold in a variety of forms and concentrations including sprays, liquids, sticks, powders, crystals, balls, and foggers, each representing a unique exposure issue. These products are used in and around the home to control:

• insects (insecticides)
• termites (termiticides)
• mice, rats, and other rodents (rodenticides)
• fungi including mildews, molds, and rusts (fungicides)
• plants and weeds (herbicides)
• bacteria and viruses (antimicrobial (PDF) products including bactericides, biocides, disinfectants and sanitizers)
• odors (deodorizers and air fresheners)

Studies of people with high exposures to pesticides, such as farmers, pesticide applicators, crop duster pilots, and manufacturers, reveal elevated rates of blood and lymphatic system cancers; cancers of the lip, stomach, lung, brain, and prostate; melanoma and other skin cancers; and other degenerative diseases. ²

According to a 2005 US EPA survey: ³

• The American Association of Poison Control Centers reported that in 2004, 71,000 children were involved in common household pesticide poisonings or exposures.
• In households with children under five years old, almost one-half stored at least one pesticide product in an unlocked cabinet within reach of children.
• Approximately 75% of households without children under the age of five also stored pesticides in an unlocked cabinet, within the reach of children. This number is especially significant because 13% of all pesticide poisoning incidents occur in homes other than the child's home.
• Bathrooms and kitchens were cited as the areas in the home most likely to have improperly stored pesticides.

In addition to the active ingredients, pesticides also are made up of carrier agents called "inerts" because they are not toxic to the targeted pest. However, these inerts, including petroleum distillates, kerosene, or other solvents are capable of causing health problems.

What can you do to reduce exposure?

After blocking all holes and places of entry for pests, and properly storing foods, try the following safer alternatives in place of pesticides: