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Leukemia Link

Chemicals designed to kill bugs in and around your home may pose a threat to more than the insect world. Studies show that children exposed to bug-killing products while in the womb or during their early years are twice as likely to get acute childhood leukemia as those who are not exposed to these chemicals.

The study found a particularly strong link to lindane shampoos used to kill head lice, a problem that often crops up in elementary schools. Researchers also noted a link between exposure to home and garden insecticides and an elevated risk of childhood leukemia.

This study, published in the prestigious British Medical Journal, was the first study to look at the association between use of head lice shampoo and childhood cancer, a disturbing link since head lice is often treated this way when there are outbreaks at school. Contrary to popular belief, head lice infestations can occur at all socio-economic levels, even in children who practice good hygiene.

If you want to steer clear of such lice shampoos, the lice (and nits, or eggs) may best be removed by combing through your child’s hair and picking them out by hand (hence the expression, nit-picking). Head lice do not spread disease but are highly contagious and cause discomfort and itching.

Previous studies have shown numerous potential adverse health effects resulting from exposure to pesticides like lindane, including learning disabilities and problems associated with the central nervous system.

For more information on this story, click here.

For more information on head lice and how to remove them, go to http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/common/lice.html or click here.

To see a copy of the study on pesticide exposure and childhood cancer, click here.

For information on a variety of pesticides and potential adverse health effects, go to http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/adverse.htm

To read more about this and other environmental health issues, go to: www.environmentalhealthnews.org, www.ourstolenfuture.org, or www.healthandenvironment.org