Pesticides: Human Health Effects

The term pesticide covers an expansive range of biocides that are used to kill or inhibit pests. Pesticides are accredited with limiting the spread of disease, as well as crop protection, food preservation, and sanitation, but their use has been met with an enormous health expense. Over the past six decades, pesticide use has grown exponentially and has been applied universally to farms, gardens, and homes. The potentially serious risks they impose on human health and the environment has led to government intervention, with bans on the most dangerous chemicals. As more evidence accumulates on the potential health risks associated with pesticide use, some individuals are opting for pesticide-free food, so much so that it has spawned the organic movement that is prevalent today.