Study looks at possible link between ADHD and pesticides

(NEWSCHANNEL 3) – A newly-released study has found a possible link between Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and pesticides used on fruit and vegetables.

The initial results are not encouraging, but more research needs to be done.

On Monday, Newschannel 3 spoke with those who manage the disorder for their reaction.

The study actually found pesticides in the urine of almost all children, and the ones who had higher levels of pesticide had an increased chance of having ADHD.

At Hope Ranch Vicki Rafferty Polk helps children cope with ADHD by focusing them on tasks in a natural setting.

“It keeps them focused,” said Polk, “they can talk about the other issues at hand.”

The notion that something artificial, like pesticides, could be causing ADHD doesn't sit well with Polk or her colleagues.

“Individuals with ADHD have some abnormalities that are already somewhat different from the individual who doesn't,” said Polk. “You throw in a pesticide or some foreign object, of course that's going to make it worse.”

“It could be a possibility,' said Michael Koehne, board member of the Hope Ranch, “and it's one that's truly unfortunate and I don't like. Children are innocent and they shouldn't have to worry about things like pesticides.”

Dr. Richard Williams treats attention disorders and says the results of the study don't surprise him.

“Why not,” said Dr. Williams, “anything that's toxic to the brain can potentially contribute to problems of attention.”

While the study doesn't make a definite link between pesticides and ADHD, and also doesn't specify whether the exposure comes from produce, or the air from farms.

“It sounds like somewhere upstream there needs to be better regulation of the types of chemicals that are added to the food supply,” said Dr. Williams.

The possible connection could also bolster calls for more organic food.

“Everything naturally, nothing additive, we're back to the real basics,” said Polk, “because the basics are who we all are, children with ADHD are the same way.”

The type of pesticides focused on in the study are called organophosphate, which the Michigan DNRE says are some of the most toxic chemicals used in farming and that exposure to them should be limited.

You can find more information on organophosphates here.