Posted by noa on August 30, 2000, at 10:06:29
From the Thyroid News Digest, by Mary Shomon...
PESTICIDES FOR WEST NILE MOSQUITOS ARE DANGER TO THYROID
They key insecticides being used against West Nile virus-carrying
mosquitos are also known to be toxic chemicals that may damage the
thyroid. Resmethrin (brand name "Scourge") and sumithrin (brand name
"Anvil") have been used in Boston and New York City, and are members of
a class of pesticides known as pyrethroids, which are known to affect
the immune and endocrine systems, and have been reported to have effects
on the liver and thyroid. In one journal, researchers reported: "immense
care is warranted in the use of [these] insecticides, because they not
only affect the liver, kidney and other organs but also may alter the
activity of the endocrine glands." ( Journal of Applied Toxicology, 1996
Sep-Oct;16(5):397-400) Another journal reported that pyrethroids are
environmental estrogens, and "through these hormonal pathways, exposure
to certain pyrethroids may contribute to reproductive dysfunction,
developmental impairment, and cancer." The Public Interest Research
Group in New York recommends that if your area is being sprayed with
these pesticides, you should "Keep windows shut and air conditioners
off during and after spraying for as long as possible. Bring pet dishes,
toys, laundry, and other portable objects inside. Cover outdoor
furniture, barbecue grills, sandboxes, and play equipment, and rinse off
surfaces that cannot be covered before use. If you get directly sprayed,
shower immediately." Children or adults who have asthma or a
respiratory condition, and pregnant women should also stay inside when
spraying occurs.
poster:noa
thread:44063
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000822/msgs/44063.html