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Do Pesticides Cause ADHD?

A recent article in the journal Pediatrics discusses the connection between ADHD and pesticides. Specifically, researchers found that children with ADHD symptoms, as reported by their parents, or children who were on ADHD medications were more likely to have high levels of a particular pesticide byproduct in their urine. They concluded that the children (who were between 8 and 15) were exposed to these pesticides through their consumption of fruits and vegetables.

This study, although limited, has some interesting implications regarding the orgins of ADHD. The researchers admit that looking at only one urine sample prohibited them from looking at changes over time regarding the relationship between the symptoms and the concentration of the pesticide byproduct. Further research is needed to study the interplay between a genetic predisposition to ADHD and various environmental influences, including pesticides.

Past studies have shown a five-fold increase in ADHD when close family members also have the disorder. In addition, cigarette smoking during pregnancy and other exposure to toxins increases the risk of the disorder, so it comes as little surprise that pesticide exposure may also be correlated.

While researchers continue to look at this connection, it may be prudent to purchase either organic or locally farmed produce for small children. However, since the positive benefits of fruits and vegetables of all stripes are well documented, I believe that when obtaining organic or locally grown is financially or logistically challenging, parents should focus first on providing a well-balanced diet.