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The effects of aerial spraying with Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki on children with asthma

Marty Pearce1, Brian Habbick, Janice Williams

  • 1University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK. marty.pearce@caphealth.org

Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne De Sante Publique
|April 3, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Aerial spraying of the biological pesticide Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Btk) did not increase asthma symptoms or affect lung function in children with asthma. This study found no evidence of adverse effects in the pediatric population exposed to Btk.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Aerial spraying of biological pesticides, such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Btk), is used for insect control.
  • Concerns exist regarding potential adverse effects of pesticides on vulnerable populations, including children with asthma.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between aerial spraying of Btk and asthma-related outcomes in children.
  • To assess changes in asthma symptoms and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) following Btk exposure.

Main Methods:

  • A pre/post matched pairs cohort study design was employed.
  • Children in the spray zone were matched with a control group outside the spray zone.
  • Asthma symptoms, non-asthma symptoms, and PEFR were monitored using diaries.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in asthma symptom scores were observed between the Btk-exposed group and the control group, either before or after spraying.
  • No significant changes in PEFR were detected in the exposed group following the spray period.

Conclusions:

  • The study found no evidence of adverse health effects in children with asthma following aerial Btk spraying.
  • This research is the first to specifically examine the impact of aerial Btk spraying on children with asthma.
Abstract

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