Human Risk Associated with Long-Term Exposure to Pyrethroid Insecticides

Abstract

The aim of this review is to provide a broad summary of the latest state of knowledge about the potential long-term adverse effects of pyrethroids on human health. The oldest and recent epidemiological studies mainly addressed respiratory, neurological, hormonal, and reproductive outcomes in adults after environmental and occupational exposures. Although several of these studies have suggested negative effects, especially on male hormonal and sperm parameters, findings were often equivocal or inconsistent across studies, and no firm and reliable conclusions can be reached yet. Regarding developmental outcomes, there is increasing evidence that fetal exposure to pyrethroids may be associated with poorer children’s neurodevelopment. Prevention measures should be considered to reduce exposure of pregnant women and children to these widely used insecticides.