What Are the Dangers of Pesticides to Humans?

Skin and Eye Irritation

• Skin and eye irritation are a common result of pesticide exposure. The effects range from slightly toxic to highly toxic depending on the type of pesticide and the length of exposure. According to Missouri State University, the hands and forearms are the most common areas for exposure and irritation. These injuries are usually caused by splashes or spilling during mixing. Such exposure should be treated by thorough cleansing with soap and water. Shampoo will help remove the chemicals from the scalp or hair, while eyes should be flushed with an eye wash. To prevent problems, appropriate clothing, gloves and eye protection should be worn. Chemicals that are harmful to skin and eyes will be labeled as such, and will include phrases like "causes skin irritation," "Do not get on skin" or "Avoid contact with eyes."

Nervous System Problems

• Long-term exposure, particularly to organophosphates and carbamate compounds, are noted for causing damage to the nervous system. These types of pesticides are used for flea and tick prevention in animals, to kill ants and cockroaches and are responsible for approximately 80 percent of pesticide poisonings in the United States, according to emrystick.com. If ingested or inhaled, the compounds affect the nerve impulse from one cell to another. Reduced heart rate, muscle stiffness and weakness are common symptoms. If treated early, prognosis for humans is good and will include airway protection, potentially with use of a respirator, as well as administration of intravenous atropine sulfate or glycopyrolate. These compounds are sold under dozens of product names and should be handled carefully through the use of skin and eye protection and a mask over the nose and mouth.

Carcinogens

• Carcinogens are substances or exposures known to cause cancer. Several pesticides are notable for their carcinogenic effects with long-term exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency uses five tiers to classify carcinogenic materials. The first classifies materials that are known to be carcinogenic to humans, products that have been tested and proven to cause cancer. This tier includes the group of pesticides known as arsenicals, products once widely used to treat wood products which have been strictly controlled and restricted since 2003. The second tier includes products that are likely to be carcinogenic, and includes Imazalil, a product used in citrus production.

Endocrine System Problems

• The endocrine system controls our glands and hormone production. It is one system that affects every part of the body and organ. The effects of an endocrine disrupting chemical will depend on which hormone system has been targeted, whether sex hormones are damaged or disrupted, deformities in the structure of reproductive tract and sperm count deficiency, among many other problems. According to PAN-UK.org, there are dozens of herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides that have been shown to have effects on the endocrine system. Among these products are nitrofen, benomyl and toxaphene, and each should be used with extreme care, including the use of protective clothing, gloves, eyewear and a mask. Additionally, these products should never by handled by pregnant women. Exposure occurs primarily through inhalation or ingestion, and will occasionally be introduced in a number of other ways. Treatment methods vary depending on the severity of the problem and which system has been affected.