Posted 6.13.05 - The Agricultural Health Study, which began in 1993, is a long-term study that involves several federal agencies. The study addresses questions about the health of the agricultural community and looks at lifestyle habits, genetic factors, and agricultural exposures that may affect of the risk of disease.
Although the study is in ongoing, many of its findings are relevant to plant disease control. Two of the study’s early findings include:
- a link between retinal degeneration and fungicide use
- an increased risk of prostate cancer in methyl bromide users
“The study’s findings serve as a reminder to be respectful of the potential risks that pesticides pose, and to use pesticides in ways that minimize exposure of workers and applicators” (Pesticide News and Views, Kentucky Pest News, 5/23/05).
More information on the Agricultural Health Study can be found at www.aghealth.org
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