Pesticide Exposure Raises ALS Risk for Agricultural Workers

A synthesis of epidemiological studies published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine found that occupational exposure to pesticides increases the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by 60‑70 %. Men exposed at work were about twice as likely to develop ALS as unexposed men, while no increased risk was observed for women. Exposure to herbicides was linked to a 70 % higher risk, and high‑level pesticide exposure nearly tripled the risk compared with no exposure.

The analysis pooled data from eight case‑control studies covering 1,734 ALS cases and additional studies on unspecified motor‑neuron disease. Researchers highlighted limitations such as the small number of primary studies and crude exposure assessments, and they urged the introduction of interventions to reduce occupational pesticide exposure. The World Health Organization has classified pesticides as intrinsically toxic, and several hazardous chemicals, including chlorpyrifos and paraquat, have been banned in the United Kingdom.

The findings have implications for workers in India, the United Kingdom and other countries where agricultural chemicals are used, emphasizing the need for stricter safety measures and further research into long‑term neurotoxicity.