POPs came into prominence as effective pesticides with the introduction of DDT in the 1940s. However, many of these chemicals, including DDT, fell out of favour after they were blamed for the declining number of wild birds and other animals (brought to the public's attention in Rachel Carson's Silent Spring) and the possible negative human health effects. As the compounds biodegrade slowly, they continue to find their way into the food chain and ultimately into the blood streams of individuals even though many of these toxins were banned many years ago. Additionally, these compounds can persist in body fat for very long periods of time following exposure.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Exploring the Link Between Environmental Pollution and Type 2 Diabetes
The possible link between persistent organic pollutants (POPs, a group which includes many pesticides) and insulin resistance, which can lead to adult onset diabetes is a neglected area which calls from more scientific research. A correlation has been reviewed demonstrating a very strong relationship between the levels of POPs in blood, particularly organochlorine compounds, and the risk of type 2 diabetes.
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It is well documented that significant exposure to POPs can cause negative health effects. The US Environmental Protection Agency states that the pesticide Chlordane, for example, can cause cancer, can lead to behavioral disorders in children if exposed before birth or while nursing, and harms the endocrine system, nervous system, digestive system, and liver.
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