Living close to pesticide use before conception and during early pregnancy could significantly increase the risk of stillbirth, according to research from the University of Arizona.
Stacy Pigott reports for Futurity.
In short:
- Exposure to specific pesticides like organophosphates within 0.31 miles of residence may double the risk of stillbirth.
- The study analyzed 1.2 million births in Arizona, finding strong links between pesticide exposure and stillbirths during pre-conception and early pregnancy.
- Pregnant women may be more vulnerable to these effects due to physiological changes and rapid fetal development.
Key quote:
“This study underscores the need to develop strategies for mitigating exposure to protect maternal and fetal health.”
— Melissa Furlong, assistant professor and environmental epidemiologist at the University of Arizona Zuckerman College of Public Health
Why this matters:
Understanding the risks of pesticide exposure near residential areas can inform public health policies to reduce stillbirths and protect maternal and fetal health.
