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Comprehensive Cancer Centers examines a new study that explores the risks of pesticides in cancers, and provides ways to use them as safely as possible to reduce risks.

Comprehensive Cancer Centers encourages everyone to take basic precautions to reduce health risks. This includes many daily situations and activities that may be overlooked. From being food and nutrition safe to regular exercise, there are many ways to avoid risks to your personal health.

While gardening in the Las Vegas Valley may not be as robust as in other places, it’s still an enjoyable part of life for many. Part of the outdoor experience also involves ensuring that outdoor creatures stay outside, and don’t visit inside our homes. In both cases, pesticides may be used to help reach goals. A recent study found out; however, that these seemingly simple activities may increase cancer risks.

In addition to gardening, residents of Southern Nevada are familiar with pesticides to mitigate parts of nature, such as invasive scorpions from coming into our yards and home. While it’s nice to keep these creepy crawlies out of our lives, the Frontiers in Cancer Control and Society study showed that pesticide exposure has been associated with cancers such as colorectal cancer, lung cancer, leukemia (in children and adults), lymphoma, and pancreatic cancer.

While the study is considered to have a limited perspective, and requires more research, it makes sense to rethink how we use pesticides and other chemicals in and outside our homes. Comprehensive created the following recommendations to use them smarter, as anytime you handle toxins, your health is at risks.

First and foremost, the best possible way to avoid toxic chemicals is to opt for non-chemical alternatives to pesticides. Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques focus on preventing pest infestations through physical barriers, natural predators, and habitat modifications. These methods are not only safer but also more sustainable in the long run. They can include glue traps, and the use of other material, including diatomaceous earth which is a powder made from fossilized diatoms and works well on scorpions.

Should non-toxic alternatives not be viable alternatives, it’s important to understand what pesticides are and the risks associated with their use. Pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, rodenticides, and other chemicals designed to control or eliminate pests. These chemicals can be toxic to humans and animals, especially when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.

Some common symptoms of pesticide exposure include: Skin irritation or rashes, respiratory issues such as coughing or difficulty breathing, dizziness, headaches, or nausea, eye irritation. Severe cases of exposure may lead to vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

The first step to pesticide safety is reading the label on the product. The label provides essential information about the pesticide, including how to apply it, where to use it, what personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, and first aid instructions in case of exposure. The label is legally binding, so following it exactly is a must. Key points to look for on the label:

  • Active ingredients: Know what chemicals are in the pesticides.
  • Target pests: Use the correct pesticide for the specific pest you want to control.
  • Application instructions: Learn how much pesticide to use and how to apply it correctly.
  • Precautions: Look for any special warnings related to health risks.

Get the Right Gear in Place Before Using Pesticides
Even for minor applications, wearing protective clothing is crucial. Pesticides can come in contact with your skin, eyes, and mouth, leading to irritation or more severe poisoning. Always wear: Long-sleeved shirts and long pants, closed-toe shoes and socks, chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes, and a mask or respirator.

Get Your Spray Area Prepared Properly
Before applying pesticides, make sure the area is prepared to reduce contamination. Remove food, utensils, and dishware: If you’re spraying in the kitchen or pantry, clear the area of anything that could come into contact with the pesticide. Keep pets and children away: Ensure that they are in another room or outside the house during application and while the pesticide dries. Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to promote air circulation, especially if you are using sprays or fumigants indoors.

More is not better when it comes to pesticides. Overuse increases the risk of health hazards and environmental contamination. Measure out the correct dosage as instructed on the label. Improper dosing can also make the pesticide less effective, leading to the need for repeated applications and even more exposure risks.

Whenever possible, use spot treatments rather than broad spraying of pesticides. Spot treatments minimize exposure to non-target organisms and reduce the chances of the pesticide getting into unintended areas like food prep surfaces or open windows. For example, apply pesticide to specific cracks or crevices where pests are known to frequent, rather than spraying the entire room.

Before resorting to sprays or other chemical applications, consider using less toxic methods like baits and traps. These are generally safer because they minimize human contact with the pesticide and reduce environmental exposure. Immediately after finishing any application, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, even if you wore gloves. If pesticides splashed onto your clothing, change out of the contaminated clothes and wash them separately from your other laundry.

There are other precautions you can take, including keep windows open for ventilation, keeping pets and children away from areas that are being, or have been recently, sprayed. And always store chemicals properly away from kids and animals and yourself. Make sure you check expiration dates and dispose of any pesticides you’re not using properly. Republic Services has resources available to help with any questions you may have.

While pesticides are chemicals may be a necessary part of life in Southern Nevada, take the time to use them wisely to protect your wellbeing and that of your family and pets.

Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Physicians at Comprehensive Cancer Centers provide a variety of treatment options for patients who’ve been referred to the practice. To schedule an appointment at Comprehensive, call 702-952-3350.

The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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