All articles tagged with #pesticide
Research links the pesticide chlorpyrifos to increased Parkinson’s risk by damaging brain cell recycling systems, leading to neuron death and protein accumulation, with evidence from human data, animal models, and cellular studies highlighting the importance of environmental factors in neurodegenerative diseases.
A study links prenatal exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos with lasting brain structure abnormalities and reduced motor skills in children, highlighting ongoing risks from agricultural use despite bans on household applications.
Over a million people in France have signed a petition opposing the reintroduction of the bee-killing pesticide acetamiprid, which is set to be allowed under the new 'Duplomb law'. The law, supported by some farmers and lawmakers, faces significant public opposition due to concerns over its impact on bees, ecosystems, and public health. Despite the petition's size, legislative action remains unlikely unless further parliamentary debate is triggered, with President Macron holding the power to intervene.
Mosquito samples in several Pittsburgh neighborhoods have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Allegheny County Health Department will treat affected areas with a low-risk pesticide on July 18 to reduce mosquito populations and minimize the risk of human transmission. Residents are advised to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to prevent bites.
California, known for its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is the largest emitter of the climate-warming pesticide sulfuryl fluoride in the U.S., accounting for 85% of the country's emissions. The pesticide is primarily used for termite fumigation, with 90% of the gas escaping into the atmosphere after tents are opened. Environmental groups have petitioned for its phase-out due to its significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions and human health risks. Despite opposition from the pesticide manufacturer, alternatives such as orange oil treatments are being promoted as safer and more environmentally friendly options.
A new study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology found that 80% of tested Americans had the pesticide chlormequat in their systems, with the chemical being detected in common oat and wheat-based products, including Cheerios and Quaker Oats. Chlormequat, a plant growth regulator not approved for use on edible crops in the U.S., has been linked to potential harmful effects, although its impact on humans is not fully understood. The study's findings have raised concerns about food safety and the importation of foods treated with chlormequat, prompting ongoing research and opposition from environmental advocacy groups.
A new study suggests that around 80% of Americans have been exposed to the plant pesticide chlormequat, which has been linked to fertility and growth issues in animals. The study found that exposure to chlormequat in rats resulted in reduced sperm motility, decreased male testosterone levels, delayed onset of puberty, and decreased weights of male reproductive organs. The chemical is found in many oat-based foods, including Cheerios and Quaker Old Fashioned Oats, with higher levels detected than deemed safe by the Environmental Working Group. While the EPA has stated there are no adverse risks in humans, the EWG recommends consuming organic oat products to reduce exposure to the chemical.
A study by the Environmental Working Group found that the pesticide chlormequat, linked to infertility in animals, was detected in the majority of oat-based foods sold in the U.S., including popular brands like Quaker Oats and Cheerios. The chemical was found in 77 of 96 urine samples taken from 2017 to 2023, with levels increasing in recent years. While the EPA allows chlormequat to be used on ornamental plants only, its use has been permitted on imported oats and other foods sold in the U.S. since 2018. The EWG opposes the EPA's proposal to allow chlormequat use on certain crops grown in the U.S. Organic oat products are recommended to reduce exposure to chlormequat, as they are grown without synthetic pesticides.
A new study by the Environmental Working Group has found chlormequat, a little-known pesticide, in the urine of four out of five people tested. The chemical is linked to reproductive and developmental problems in animal studies, raising concerns about potential harm to humans. The study suggests that consumer exposure to chlormequat could be on the rise, with regulatory changes allowing its use on imported oats and other foods. The Environmental Working Group urges government agencies to test foods for chlormequat and conduct more research on its effects on human health.
A viral warning on Facebook claims that McDonald's french fries contain a carcinogenic ingredient called "acrilane" and are sprayed with a harmful pesticide. However, the rumor is misleading. The correct term is acrylamide, not "acrilane." Acrylamide is a substance that forms when certain foods, including potatoes, are heated. It is classified as a potential human health concern, but the risk of cancer from acrylamide in food is not well-established. The levels of acrylamide in McDonald's fries are similar to those found in fries from other restaurants. Additionally, the claim about a harmful pesticide requiring farmers to wait four days is misleading, as it is a standard safety measure for pesticide use.
A British couple died from carbon monoxide poisoning while on vacation in Egypt after the room next to theirs was fumigated with a pesticide containing dichloromethane for bed bugs. The fumigated room, connected to theirs with an adjoining door, was sealed with masking tape. The couple returned to their room but were found seriously ill the next day. The deaths were ruled as carbon monoxide poisoning caused by inhaling the vapor from the pesticide. The couple's daughter expressed her family's struggle to comprehend the tragedy and stated that it should have never happened.
The European Commission has proposed that EU countries authorize the use of glyphosate, a controversial weed-killing chemical, in farming for another 10 years. Glyphosate is the most widely used pesticide in the world, but critics argue that it is linked to cancer and harmful to wildlife. The European Food Safety Authority found "no critical areas of concern" but identified data gaps. The proposal will be discussed by member countries on Friday, with a vote scheduled for October 13. France, which previously voted against the approval, has indicated it will not oppose it this time.
Mosquito samples collected in several Pittsburgh neighborhoods and neighboring municipalities have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Allegheny County Health Department will spray a mosquito pesticide in these areas to lower the local mosquito population and reduce the risk of human transmission. Health officials urge residents to protect themselves by removing standing water, using insect repellent, and ensuring open windows and doors have screens. Work is also set to start on the Homestead Grays Bridge, with periodic lane and sidewalk closures expected. Additionally, Allegheny County has received state funding for traffic light improvements in over 20 projects throughout the county. Pittsburgh police have announced the latest citation and arrest numbers in the South Side entertainment district, where additional patrols have been conducted to improve safety.