Pesticides

 

A pesticide is any chemical which is used by man for:

• preventing,
• destroying,
• repelling, or
• mitigating any pest.

Though often misunderstood to refer only to insecticides, the term pesticide also applies to herbicides, fungicides, and various other substances used to control pests. Some pesticides must only contact (touch) the pest to be deadly. Others must be swallowed to be effective. The way that each pesticide attacks a pest suggests the best way to apply it; to reach and expose all the pests. For example, a pesticide may be more effective and less costly as a bait, rather than as a surface spray.

By their very nature, most pesticides create some risk of harm - Pesticides can cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment because they are designed to kill or otherwise adversely affect living organisms.

At the same time, pesticides are useful to society - Pesticides can kill potential disease-causing organisms and control insects, weeds, and other pests.

There are many different types of pesticides. They are used in homes and on lawns, in agricultural fields on fruits and vegetables, and in parks, golf courses, and buildings. They are also used on pets and people to protect from insects. They are used to help grow crops more efficiently, and to protect people from diseases.

Biologically-based pesticides, such as pheromones and microbial pesticides, are becoming increasingly popular and often are safer than traditional chemical pesticides.

Many household products are pesticides. All of these common products are considered pesticides:

• Cockroach sprays and baits
• Insect repellents for personal use.
• Rat and other rodent poisons.
• Flea and tick sprays, powders, and pet collars.
• Kitchen, laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers.
• Products that kill mold and mildew.
• Some lawn and garden products, such as weed killers.
• Some swimming pool chemicals.

Exposures to pesticides may cause a wide variety of both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) health affects, depending upon the type of pesticide and the amount of exposure. Signs of acute poisoning may include diarrhea, pinpoint pupils, rashes, nausea and vomiting. Some pesticides may cause eye or throat irritation. Chronic exposure (greater than 1 year) to some types of pesticides may aggravate asthma symptoms; other types may increase the risk for certain types of cancers and birth defects, or cause damage to the genetic and immune systems.

Always use pesticides safely. Always read the label on the pesticide products you use. Improper use of pesticides in the home can lead to pesticide poisoning, and other health problems. When pesticides build up in the environment, they can also cause health problems. 

Exposure to pesticides should be avoided whenever possible.  It is important to remember that children can be exposed to more pesticides than adults because of their playing and eating habits.  We recommend that people use common sense measures, such as washing fruits and vegetables before eating and carefully following the directions on products, in order to minimize their exposure to pesticides.