Organophosphate Exposure Linked to ADHD Diagnosis

Scientists from the University of Montreal and Harvard University have teamed up to test the relationship between organophosphate compounds and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.  Organophosphates are esters of phosphoric acid and are found in many of the pesticides used today.  The study discovered a link between an exposure to organophosphate pesticides and the prevalence of ADHD symptoms such as inactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.  The scientists measured the levels of pesticides in childrens urine to confirm that exposure to organophosphate pesticides may contribute to the diagnosis of ADHD.  The study was supported by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and the National Institute of Environmental Science.  Hopefully further developments will be made to gain a greater understanding of how this possible cause of ADHD can be removed from the environment.

    One interesting aspect of this article was that it reminded me how harmful chemicals can be to the environment and our health.  We focus a lot on chemical safety in labs when we use the hoods, and this reinforced that these corrosive effects are also applicable to everyday.  I usually think of the relationship between chemistry and medicine as revolving around helpful chemicals that form medicines, so it was interesting to consider the negative influence of chemicals on health. Also, I shadow a general practitioner and have seen a lot of children come in complaining of problems focusing in class or constant fidgeting.  I feel like ADD and ADHD are becoming more common these days, and perhaps this is linked to an increased dependency upon pesticides.  It will be interesting to see if changes are made to ensure the health and safety of developing children and their neurological functions. 

 See  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100517132846.htm


Posted by Anne McGinty