We owe it to ourselves and to the next generation to conserve the environment so that we can bequeath our children a sustainable world that benefits all.
-Dr. Wangari Maathai
Introduction
Overview:
I. The State of our children’s health
II. Health links to pesticides - What do the studies say?
III. What are the specifics involved with the usage of pesticides In Africa and children’s health?
The role of pesticides as a major factor and prime cause in the downward trajectory of our children’s health has been known for decades.1 There are innumerable studies that have documented how pesticides work and why they are so dangerous for our children. Yet, agribusinesses and government officials ignore both the well-vetted scientific and clinical information available and continue to promote the application of pesticide usage despite these alarming negative trends in our children’s health globally.
The goal of this chapter is to provide an understanding of the present health crisis facing our children via an overview and update of the status of their health. While there are many disorders and diseases now facing our children, several disorders have been selected due to either their prevalence (obesity), lack of awareness of their existence (intestinal/liver) and because of their rapidly escalating growth (neurocognitive dysfunctional disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD).
This small representation of the vast number of challenges facing our children are pivotal examples of health consequences and the cost of convenience from decades of pesticide applications. New studies as well as clinical perspectives will be presented highlighting the links between these diseases and the most commonly applied pesticides.
The narrative of this chapter will hone in on the particular challenges of pesticide usage and their effects on African children. Research demonstrating the health benefits of food free from chemical inputs is discussed concluding with practical and applicable solutions away from chemical farming in Africa that would benefit and promote well-being in children’s lives.
Definitions
Pesticides are a broad term and encompass various classes of killing agents including herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides and bactericides (disinfectants). It is unusual to be exposed to only one of these chemicals individually and more commonly, multiple chemicals are applied concomitantly.
The toxic effects of this “chemical soup” have been inadequately studied.2 It should be clearly understood that studies are often reporting on one chemical only. Additionally, an entire pesticide product with the “inert” adjuvants are not studied along with the “active” ingredient.
The true toxic picture on children’s health from multiple chemical exposures simultaneously is unknown.