Researchers in the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences are undertaking a study examining pesticide exposure in children (aged 2-6) and are seeking volunteers from the general community, and families with a person who handles pesticides as part of their occupation. The project has ethics approval.

Low-level exposure to pesticides can be a significant risk to children, with links to some neurodevelopmental effects, cancers, leukaemia’s and long term illnesses. Importantly, Australian children have been shown to have higher levels of pesticide exposure when compared to those of the USA and Europe. This may have significant implications for the long term health and well-being of Australian children, particularly for those children who are indirectly exposed to pesticides through occupational pesticide handlers.

Our study will identify intervention strategies in order to reduce the exposure to pesticides amongst Australian children and  minimise the risks to their health.

If you are interested in participating, please contact Sarah Waras by email at wara0008@flinders.edu.au or phone 0424 464 879.