Pesticides promote depression in adolescents
Adolescents exposed to pesticides have a greater risk of developing depression. This is the result of a study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego. The study examined adolescents in Ecuador who live in agricultural communities. This correlation is particularly pronounced among girls and adolescents under 14 years of age.
A total of 529 young people between the ages of eleven and 17 were studied in the survey. Ecuador is the world's third largest exporter of roses. Like many other agricultural crops, the flowers are routinely treated with organophosphates sprayed. These affect the human cholinergic system, a key component in brain and nervous system function.
Scientists tested levels of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the blood to detect exposure levels. Pesticides, such as organophosphates and carbamates, exert their toxicity by inhibiting AChE activity. The results are clear: adolescents who had lower AChE activity - suggesting greater exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors - were more likely to show symptoms of a Depression. These were measured using a standardized depression assessment instrument.
Girls particularly affected
Among girls and adolescents under 14, the association between low AChE activity and depression was particularly strong. "Farm workers and people in these communities have long published reports of an increase in depression and suicidal thoughts among adolescents," described study author Jose R. Suarez-Lopez. He said this is the first study to provide empirical data demonstrating an association with a biological marker in terms of exposure.
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