Soil pesticides linked to ADHD

Pesticides used in food production have been connected to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a new study.

The research published yesterday (May 17th) was conducted by scientists from the University of Montreal and Harvard University and revealed a potential link between increased risk of ADHD in children and exposure to organophosphate pesticides.

In response to these findings, a representative of the Soil Association explained that connections have been drawn between pesticides and other health problems as well.

Head of policy Emma Hockridge remarked: "They have been linked to Alzheimer's disease, learning difficulties in children and a large number of farmers have been campaigning for recognition of the range of neurological problems they have suffered."

According to the Soil Association, every year 31,000 tonnes of pesticides are used in farming to control weeds and pests.

In an attempt to encourage people to eat more organically grown food that has not been treated with pesticides, the Co-op and Marks & Spencer have banned the use of particular chemical where uncertainty has been raised about their safety.

Posted by Lauren Steadman