A recent study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health reportedly claims that children exposed to pesticides known as organophosphates could have a higher risk of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and urges parents to always wash produce thoroughly.
Pesticides’ breakdown products in children’s urine was tracked by researchers. Children found with high levels were almost twice as likely to develop ADHD as those with undetectable levels.
The results are based on data from the general U.S. population, meaning that pesticide exposure may be harmful at levels that are commonly found in children’s environment.
Organophosphates originally developed for chemical warfare
Originally, organophosphates were developed for chemical warfare and are known to be toxic to the human nervous system.