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Pesticides

Definition

Pesticides are chemicals that are formulated to kill, interfere with reproductive processes, or repel a live organism. They are therefore, by design, toxic. The word pesticide represents the overall category of these chemicals, all of which must be registered with the US EPA. The subcategory names are based on the target of the pesticide. For instance, herbicides kill plants, rodenticides kill rodents, insecticides kill insects, etc.  In some instances these chemicals do not directly kill but rather prevent further reproduction.  It is important to consider the health effects of pesticides based on specific chemicals and not blanket them all together. According to the EPA, 75% of U.S households used at least one pesticide product indoors during the past year. ¹

Sources of Pesticides

Products that are most often used include insecticides, disinfectants, termiticides, rodenticides, fungicides in the forms of sprays, liquids, sticks, powders, crystals, gels, balls and foggers. Pesticides may also drift or be tracked inside from their outside use in yards, gardens and agricultural applications.¹ ² The biocides that nurses use in healthcare practice are registered pesticides because they are formulated to kill microbes.

Chemicals emitted

Indoor pesticide products are often in spray cans and many fall into the class of semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some harmful active ingredients that can be found in indoor pesticides include Abamectin, Permethrin, Pyrethrin and many more.¹

Health Impacts

There are many health risks associated with pesticides so it is important to assess what pesticides are being used in a home and look up the specific health risks associated with that product.

Steps for Prevention and Remediation¹ ² ³

Keep pests out

    • Determine where the pests are coming from.
    • Seal all foods in containers.
    • Seal gaps around doors, cracks and pipes where they might be entering through using pest-proof materials such as caulking and steel wool. 
    • If you know the area outside the home where insects are coming from, you can apply diatomaceous earth to the area.  This is non-toxic but harms insects by physically injuring their exoskeleton.
    • Inspect your indoor plants for pests. 

Find out what your pests are looking for: 

    • Is it food, water or shelter from harsh weather conditions outdoors? 
    • Pests need food and will often be attracted to food that is out in the open or is accessible through containers and trash bins that are not tightly sealed. Keep dishes clean, put food away when not in use and keep garbage closed off to pests.
    • Pests need water. Search for and address standing water, leaking and clogged sinks. 
    • Pests like to hide in dark and hard-to-see places. Minimize clutter in and around the home. 

Identify the specific pest you have and learn more about it and to predict its behaviors

Monitor the problem.

    • Thoroughly vacuum and clean the areas where you are finding pests. Wash the areas with soap and water.
    • Continue to monitor the area to track progress. 

Pesticide use as a last resort. 

    • Use traps and devices like “roach hotels” before applying pesticides.
    • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
    • Ventilate the area well and keep pets and children away from the area of pesticide use.
    • Avoid sprays and foggers if possible.
Additional Resources

US EPA. Integrated Pest Management in Buildings. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-11/documents/ipm_in_buildings.pdf

US HUD. About Integrated Pest Management. https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/healthy_homes/healthyhomes/ipm

National Pesticide Information Center http://npic.orst.edu/

Reference List

1. US EPA. Pesticides Impact on Indoor Air Quality. Available at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/pesticides-impact-indoor-air-quality Accessed July 3, 2024.

2. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality.Available at: https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/home/inside-story-guide-indoor-air-quality. Accessed July 3, 2024.

3. US HUD. About Integrated Pest Management. Available at: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/healthy_homes/healthyhomes/ipm. Accessed July 6, 2024.

Combustion

Combustion, the process of burning fuels for energy, is used in two-thirds of US households for heating, cooking, and drying, emitting pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, which can cause both immediate irritation and long-term health issues such as lung disease and cancer.


Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants, including mold, pests, and animal dander, originate from sources like people, pets, and plants, and can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and infectious illnesses in the home.


Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), emitted from household items like cleaners, paints, and furnishings, are often found in higher concentrations indoors and can cause immediate health issues like irritation and headaches, as well as long-term damage to the kidney, liver, and central nervous system.


Lead

Lead is a toxic heavy metal found in household paint, dust, soil, and water, particularly in homes built before 1978. Exposure can cause acute effects like seizures and anemia, and chronic effects such as cognitive impairments, reproductive complications and irreversible nervous system damage, especially in children.


Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through cracks in walls and foundations, leading to dangerous indoor levels. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the leading cause among non-smokers, necessitating testing and remediation in high-risk areas.


Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber used for its strength and heat resistance in building materials and products. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the air, leading to serious lung diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.


Current Page: Pesticides

Pesticides are toxic chemicals used in various forms like sprays and powders, and are found in 75% of U.S. households. These chemicals, including insecticides and rodenticides, can pose health risks, so it is crucial to assess specific products and their associated hazards.


Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are chemicals used to slow or prevent the spread of fire in various household products. These substances, which can persist in the environment and accumulate in the body, may cause health issues such as endocrine disruption, cognitive impairments, respiratory problems, and increased cancer risk.


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