Pesticides have saved at least 7 million people from diseases transmitted by insects such as malaria, typhus, and sleeping sickness. Farmers using pesticides have an increase in profits. Chemical means of controlling pests are faster and more effective than organic means, even considering genetic resistance. Pesticide threats to human health are outweighed by their other benefits, according to the American Council on Science and Health. Scientists are continually working on the development of safer, more specialized, and more effective pesticides.
Genetic engineering is one area being researched as an alternative method of pest control.
Cons Pesticide use leads to mutations in target species that are expose but not killed. These species develop an immunity to the pesticide, and multiply to become a greater threat then the original animal. Because pesticides are designed to kill organisms, they also pose a threat to non-target species, including humans. This leads to severe outbreaks in disease in many parts of the world. Exterminating the natural predators of pest species can uncover new pests who had previously been kept in check by a balance in a natural ecosystem.