Abstract
Exposure to environmental factors may contribute to respiratory symptoms, in vulnerable subjects particularly children. In rural area, children's pesticides exposure included usually residential proximity to farmland, and domestic exposure.
A pilot study was performed in rural area in south-west of France to evaluate the impact of pesticides used in vineyards culture, on respiratory health in schoolchildren during pesticides-treatment. Three hundred and ten schoolchildren were included in this study, (Means age [3-11 years old]). Parents answered a standardized questionnaire (ISAAC ) on respiratory symptoms and domestic pesticides use. Air Pesticides exposure at schools was measured by monitors in classrooms.
24.8% of children had ever wheeze, 29.1% had cough episodes during past year, and 17.6 % had asthma. 36.2% had rhinitis and 32.2% had rhino-conjunctivitis during past year. Three major pesticides were identified in schools : Folpel, CS2 and chlorpyriphos methyl. Children highly exposed to Folpel, had significantly more rhinoconjunctivitis (OR: 3.26 [1.14-9.29). Children highly exposed to CS2 had a higher risk of allergic conjunctivitis (OR: 3.04 [1.31-7.04]). Insecticide domestic use was associated with rhinitis (OR: 1.82 [0.99-3.5]). Lice killer lotion was associated with current rhinitis (OR: (3.56[0.99-12.59]), dyspnea episodes (OR: 3.84[1.18-12.46]) and allergic cough (OR: 2.12 [1.07-4.2). Any domestic pesticide exposure was associated with current rhinitis (OR: 3.67[1.47-9.1]) and allergic cough (OR: 2.37[1.08-5.1]).
Pesticides exposure had a significant impact for children in schools located near pesticides-treated lands.
Fundings : Fondation du souffle, ANSES.
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