How Pesticides Affect the Nervous System

While many readers may well remember the banning of DDT and other chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides in 1972 after the release of Rachel Carson's nationally discussed book, Silent Spring, few are aware that since then, newer, more dangerous pesticides have emerged, and pose a greater threat than ever to human health. It is estimated that every year, more than ten thousand people suffer from acute pesticide poisoning, while many more suffer adverse affects without reporting their illness. In spite of these ill results of pesticides, hundreds of millions of pounds are sprayed annually in the United States, contaminating topsoil, bedrock, and water supplies nationwide.

To understand how this more modern class of pesticides (organophosphates) affect the human body, one must first consider basic human anatomy. Nerve cells, properly called neurons, are not directly linked together in the body - instead, a small gap, or 'synapse,' is present between the cells; messages are ferried across this tiny void with bodily chemicals known as neurotransmitters.

Specifically, the neurotransmitter affected by most organophosphates is known as acetylcholine. When released into the synapse by the transmitting cell, acetylcholine crosses the gap, signals the next neuron, and is catalyzed by an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme prevents the neurotransmitter from lingering in the synapse and causing repeated, uncontrolled firing of the neuron.

However, when a pesticide is introduced to the body, it mimics acetylcholine, and performs the same task: triggering the next neuron in a chain leading back to the brain. This may lead to repeated convulsions, vomiting, or even seizures, because organophosphates linger in the synapse and are not catalyzed by acetylcholinesterase. Compounding the problem is the extreme persistence of the organophosphate pesticides: the damage they cause is permanent, whereas health problems caused by pesticides derived from chlorinated hydrocarbons may rectify themselves.

In consideration of these health issues, it is most important that the general public, generally not exposed to fields of spray, remember to always wash fresh produce before consumption. Those who work in the agricultural industry should take special care to protect against insecticides and herbicides, and, as an entire nation, we should take the initiative to push for alternative pest control in light of pesticide-related health problems.