What does DDT do to insects?
In insects, DDT opens sodium ion channels in neurons, causing them to fire spontaneously, which leads to spasms and eventual death. Insects with certain mutations in their sodium channel gene are resistant to DDT and similar insecticides.
What does DDT get rid of?
DDT was a commonly-used pesticide for insect control in the United States until it was canceled in 1972 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Why was DDT used? DDT was initially used by the military in WW II to control malaria, typhus, body lice, and bubonic plague (1).
What is DDT pesticide?
Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is an insecticide used in agriculture. DDT has also been used in the past for the treatment of lice. It is still in use outside the United States for the control of mosquitoes that spread malaria.
Why DDT is banned?
In 1972, EPA issued a cancellation order for DDT based on its adverse environmental effects, such as those to wildlife, as well as its potential human health risks. As a result, today, DDT is classified as a probable human carcinogen by U.S. and international authorities.
What are the long term effects of DDT on humans?
These conditions are related to cardiometabolic problems such as insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, and high blood pressure, and increased risk for breast cancer and some other cancers.
What are the damages caused by DDE?
High levels of DDT can affect the nervous system causing excitability, tremors and seizures. In women, DDE can cause a reduction in the duration of lactation and an increased chance of having a premature baby.
Why DDT should not be used?
DDT has been banned for agricultural use in many countries since the 1970s because of fears about its harmful effects on the environment and human health. Indoor residual spraying has proven to be just as cost effective as other malaria prevention measures, and DDT presents no health risk when used properly.”
