M.D. Last weekend, Johnny, while playing with his dog Kemo, went to fetch a ball in their lush, well-manicured yard, free of dandelions and crabgrass. Research over the last 20 years has shown that pesticides can cause cancer, sterility, birth defects, and damage to the nervous system. Recent studies link pesticides with Parkinson s disease and learning disabilities. Not only has there been a constant rise in the use of pesticides, there has also been a constant rise in the incidence of cancers associated with pesticide exposure childhood leukemia, brain tumors and non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Children are especially susceptible to pesticides due to their immature development.
Some pesticides accumulate in the fat of animals and humans.
Many pesticides that persist in the environment have known harmful effects to wildlife, beneficial insects, and soil organisms. Pesticides have become widespread and are contaminating surface and groundwater throughout the country. Pesticide alternatives have been shown to be in most cases not only more effective but in many cases cheaper. Good housekeeping is important for cockroaches, ants and fleas. Exclusion methods such as caulking or sealing areas of entrance work well along with baits outside.