DDT, still with us!
DDT was a commonly used pesticide all over America. The DDT pesticide was banned in 1972, yet studies show many are still reaping the consequences of unrestricted use of the chemical over 40 years later. DDT was not used as a pesticide until World War II. It was during this time that farmers started using the chemical on their crops. The chemistry department also notes how the pesticide was used to stop the spread of malaria and yellow fever. In 1972, the EPA outlawed the use of the chemical, except in cases where it stopped the spread of disease.
The pesticide has been banned in America for over 40 years; however, it has been making headlines again this week. Many news outlets are reporting about an ongoing study examining its link to current breast cancer cases. According to these reports, mothers who were exposed to high levels of the chemical while pregnant unknowingly increased their daughters’ chances for the disease. DDT is still used today in areas requiring it to combat the diseases malaria and yellow fever. The Malaria Foundation points out that these diseases are most common in poorer countries, which may not be able to afford newer pesticides. When used properly, this pesticide poses little threat to humans today. Moreover, they claim it is no longer needed to treat outdoor environments; therefore the chemical should no longer be used outside the living space. According to the World Health Organization, malaria was responsible for approximately 584,000 deaths in 2013. The studies show that even with all of the guidelines and bans in place today, the consequences of the widespread and unrestricted use of DDT from over 40 years ago are still being reaped.
Read more at http://guardianlv.com/2015/06/ddt-pesticide-banned-for-over-40-years-but-women-reaping-consequences/#O5Epe9orc325yPSr.99 go green pest control delta pest control tsawwassen pest control ladner pest control Randy Bilesky
