Meta-analysis of exposure to pesticide and asthma

Background The workplace exposes agricultural workers to many respiratory hazards including pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Exposure to pesticides is positively associated with increased risk for asthma among farmers and other agricultural workers. Regardless of age and smoking habits, agricultural workers have an increased prevalence of asthma related illness. Objectives 1) To examine the correlation between increased pesticide exposure and asthma related illness 2) To identify the association between pesticide exposure and atopic asthma Methods Search was done using Medline, Pubmed, and Highwire with the terms agricultural migrant workers and occupational asthma from 1970 to October 2009. Results Many agricultural workers suffer from pesticide related illnesses each year. Exposure to pesticides in the workplace has contributed to an increase in wheezing among farmers and commercial pesticide applicators. Organophosphate and carbamate insecticides are especially associated with irritating preexisting conditions related to asthma in addition to triggering the onset of new asthma cases. Conclusion This meta-analysis reveals that exposure to pesticides in an agricultural environment increases an individuals risk for developing respiratory ailments including asthma. Exposure to pesticides such as organophosphates and carbamate insecticides are positively associated with the increase of atopic asthma. Those living in rural areas or areas in close proximity to the agricultural industry are also at risk for developing asthma related illness. This presents a serious threat to children living in rural settings. Therefore, the increase in the number of asthma cases may be correlated with increase exposure to pesticide.