Organophosphates are some of the most commonly used and toxic class of pesticides. They are toxic to the human nervous system and are especially dangerous to children (and fetus development) causing developmental effects. Acute exposure can cause nausea, headaches, twitching, and difficulty breathing. Long term exposure is linked to negative reproductive effects, memory problems, depression, irritability, chronic fatigue, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.
Of course here on Kauai we are very concerned about human exposure due to the extremely high use of organophosphates by the four seed companies, but these chemicals are sprayed regularly on crops so most of us are exposed to them if we are eating any non-organic produce (which means the majority of people). If you are living in an area of high use organophosphate pesticides (ie. Westside, Southside Kauai), or are simply concerned about your own pesticide exposure, and/or have any of the above mentioned symptoms, I recommend testing for organophosphate pesticide exposure (as well as the pesticide atrazine). Contact me if interested in testing.