Malathion Exposure and Attention Problems in Children
 Organophosphates, a type of pesticides that cause a neurological effect, have been shown to be a possible cause of attention problems like ADHD in children who are exposed to the chemicals. Malathion exposure is one of the most common types of organophosphate pesticides that were reported in the children covered in the study. Children who had higher than average malathion exposure were shown to be twice as susceptible to developing attention challenges than children who weren't.
Since malathion is used in a variety of common agricultural and landscaping treatments, it may be easier than many parents realize for their children to have high levels of malathion exposure. Malathion is used in:
- The treatment of fruits and vegetables against pests
- Residential landscaping
- Community pest control
- Cotton treatment
- Much more
Despite its prevalence in everyday life, there are some steps you can take to keep the effects of malathion exposure to a minimum. Make sure to wash and cook all food thoroughly before eating, wash new clothes before wearing them, and support a sanitary lifestyle in your family by encouraging hand washing and other good hygiene habits.
However, if you feel that your child is experiencing symptoms of an attention disorder, and/or that they may have high levels of pesticide and malathion exposure, speak to your physician for more information and a proper diagnosis.
|
