A new scientific analysis suggests that pesticide exposure may be linked to attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.

The researchers analyzed data from 1,139 children (age 8-15) who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2000-2004).

Based on interviews with the children's parents, 119 participants met the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Pesticide compounds were present in 94 percent of the children. The researchers found that higher urinary dialkyl phosphate concentrations, especially dimethyl alkylphosphate (DMAP) concentrations, were associated with a greater risk of ADHD.

However, this study does not prove that pesticide exposure cause ADHD. Instead, it shows a potential relationship between the two conditions. Additional research is needed to confirm these early findings.

For more information about pesticides, please visit Natural Standard's Environment & Global Health database.

1. Bouchard MF, Bellinger DC, Wright RO, et al. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Urinary Metabolites of Organophosphate Pesticides. Pediatrics. May 2010. (doi:10.1542/peds.2009-3058).
2. Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. www.naturalstandard.com