Heart Disease and Pesticide Exposure

Through the utilization of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Scale, the scientists can determine the individual exposure to pesticides. Through this scale they can also determine the intensity and duration of pesticide exposure. Furthermore, because of the size of the sample they also have access to people that have no contact with pesticides. Because of this, researchers can compare the prevalence of heart disease among the two groups. Not only that, but they can compare the results for an extensive period.

After considering all the facts the scientists conclude that pesticide exposure increases the risk of heart disease up to 45%. Also, moderate and intense exposure to pesticides did not influence the chance of gaining heart disease later in life. That means that pesticides affect heart health even if the exposure is in moderate doses.

Why are pesticides so dangerous for heart health? This is because pesticides have a long half-life and they can stay in the organism. Because of this they can affect the health of individuals long after the exposure stops. The scientists show that the highest effect of pesticides on heart health is in the first 10 years after exposure.

After considering all the facts the scientists conclude that the best preventive measure is to wear protective gear. Through such measures, we can minimalize the exposure to pesticides and their adverse effects on heart health.