Study Links Bug Sprays with Childhood Leukemia

LVH physician says there is some risk, but no conclusive evidence

Lehigh Valley, Pa. (February 2006) – A recent study published this month by the journal Occupational and Environmental Medicine suggested a possible link between the risk of childhood leukemia and common household pesticides and insecticides, including lice removal shampoos.

The study indicated that children had an increased chance of developing leukemia if their mothers used insecticides or bug sprays while pregnant. The study also found that children who used lice removal shampoos had an increased chance of developing childhood leukemia.

“Parents shouldn’t panic,” says Lehigh Valley Hospital pediatric oncologist Philip Monteleone, M.D. “The study results were inconclusive and it’s not something you should be overly concerned about. The study even indicated that there was no direct relation to the cause of the leukemia and the use of insecticides and pesticides, and as long as you use caution, and don’t overuse bug sprays in your home or your garden, you and your child likely face a minimal risk of developing leukemia.”

Monteleone also advised individuals to consult their physician if they are worried about different household chemicals that may affect them or their families. “Use common sense like washing your hands after using bug spray in the garden, and limit your exposure to it as well.”

According to the PA Cancer Control Consortium (PAC3), leukemia affects roughly 1,800 Pennsylvanians each year and is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia usually affects children the most. In this form of leukemia, uncontrolled and exaggerated growth and accumulation of “lymphoblasts” or “leukemic blasts” block production of normal bone marrow cells, leading to a deficiency of red cells (creating anemia), platelets (impairing blood clotting) and normal white cells (fighting infection).

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