The Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas is one of eight centers funded by the Environmental Protection Agency and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to investigate children's health and the environment. The goal of this study is to determine whether there are adverse health consequences to children from exposures to environmental hazards, including pesticides, pollens, molds, and dusts, in agricultural communities. Specifically, we will determine the relationship between neurodevelopment, growth, and the occurrence of asthma and chronic low-level pesticide exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods. Over one-year, we enrolled a cohort of 600 pregnant women who receive care from two community clinics who serve low-income, Hispanic residents of Monterey County, California; we will follow their children until age two. By June 2001, we expect 520 babies and their families to be enrolled. Mothers are interviewed pre- and post-natally about their habits, demographic characteristics, and work and medical histories. We are conducting child neurobehavioral evaluations at 6, 12, and 24 months, focusing on behaviors likely to be affected by pesticide exposure. The mother is also questioned about her child's development and illnesses, breastfeeding, and child-care. Maternal and child urine, blood, breastmilk, dust, pollen, and mold samples are collected, and each home is inspected. Data presented will describe environmental and sociodemographic factors potentially affecting the children's health and development, including housing quality and density, allergen exposures, environmental exposures (i.e. pesticides, ETS), SES, social support, and acculturation. See www.chamacos.org
Learning Objectives: Develop an understanding of the unique environmental health concerns facing children living in agricultural communities.
Keywords: Environmental Health, Children's Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.