The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #59818

Mary E. Rogge, MSW, PhD, College of Social Work, The University of Tennessee, 225 Henson Hall, Knoxville, TN 37996-3333, (865) 974-7500, mrogge@utk.edu

A growing body of research indicates that children are physiologically more susceptible, from before conception through adolescence, to exposure to pesticides and other chemicals. Exposure can induce symptoms such as anxiety, poor concentration, lethargy, nausea, headaches, or depression. Recent studies suggest pesticide exposure is widespread; metabolites of chlorpyrifos (Dursban; a widely used, neurotoxic organophosphate suspected of causing cancer and immune system damage) were found in the urine of 82% of adults in a national population sample and in 92% of children in a Minnesota study. Little data is available, however, regarding children's exposure in U.S. schools, childcare centers, homeless shelters, juvenile detention centers, and other facilities where they spend considerable time. This paper reviews research and actions targeted toward the reduction of children's exposure to pesticides and other chemicals in such facilities. The paper first reviews research regarding pesticide exposure and children's health, with a focus on respiratory problems, cancer, developmental disabilities, and endocrine disruption. A discussion of research limitations and the "precautionary principle" is included. Second, the status of research specific to children's exposure in schools, childcare centers, and other child serving facilities is described. Third, policy, program, education, and research initiatives to reduce children's exposure are explored. Local, state, regional, and national examples are used to explore common and unique approaches, and non-traditional interdisciplinary initiatives, that are underway. Specific resources and tools, including a short survey instrument, integrated pest management, and adaptations of EPA's "Tools for Schools" for other child-serving facilities, are detailed. An extensive resource packet is provided.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. List four types of childhood illness associated with exposure to pesticides and other chemicals.
• 2. Identify three strategies for constructing non-traditional, interdisciplinary partnerships to reduce children's exposure to pesticides and other chemicals in child-serving facilities.
• 3. Carry out a first-step assessment of risk from pesticides and other chemicals in child-serving facilities.
• 4. Develop a beginning, working knowledge of integrated pest management, the EPA Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Kit, and other tools to reduce children's exposure to pesticides and other chemicals in child-serving facilities.

Keywords: Children's Health, Environmental Health Hazards

Related Web page: utyeah.utk.edu

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's "Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools" Program.
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.