Toxic sprays, fragile brains: assessing pesticides exposure and disparities on neurodevelopment

Pesticides are widely used for agricultural and domestic purposes. However, their use raises concerns about potential health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like children and their neurodevelopment. This review highlights the common routes of pesticide exposure for children, the consequences of the exposure period on neurodevelopmental disorders, the possible epigenetic modifications of these pesticides, and the disparities in exposure. Common routes of exposure include oral ingestion, proximity to application sites, and prenatal exposure. There is a strong association between exposure to certain pesticides, like organophosphates, organochlorines, and pyrethroids, with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and impairments in cognitive function. The timing of pesticide exposure plays a key role in determining the severity of neurodevelopmental outcomes: prenatal exposure to pesticides was most critical, especially during the first and third trimesters, while postnatal exposure, especially in early childhood, also increased risks, particularly for ADHD. Prenatal exposure to organophosphates and carbamates alter the standard cellular mechanisms and mitochondrial functions. Exposure to pyrethroids and organophosphates was also associated with cognitive impairment in children with permutation of the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein gene. We highlight the disparity in pesticide exposure across various populations, such as those from lower socio-economic backgrounds and minority communities. We emphasize that the impact of pesticides is not solely biological; the interplay of social and environmental factors also influences the severity of outcomes. More inclusive research, regulatory policies, and tailored risk assessments are needed to address such inequities and reduce exposure.