[Special Issue News] Growing Up With Pesticides

Science 16 August 2013:
Vol. 341 no. 6147 pp. 740-741
DOI: 10.1126/science.341.6147.740 Three cohort studies in the United States are tracking the long-term consequences on the developing brain of pesticide exposure during pregnancy and the early years of life. The studies are finding troubling effects, such as IQ deficits and ADHD-like behavioral problems. Some evidence also suggests pesticides may interfere with the normal sexual development of the brain.

?* Amanda Mascarelli is a science writer in Denver. Her reporting was supported by the California Endowment Health Journalism Fellowships, a program of the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Journalism.

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[Special Issue News] Vietnam Turns Back A 'Tsunami of Pesticides'

Science 16 August 2013:
Vol. 341 no. 6147 pp. 737-738
DOI: 10.1126/science.341.6147.737 Vietnam has pioneered a new approach to curb the widespread overuse of pesticides in agriculture, starting with a large-scale experiment in which farmers discovered for themselves that using less pesticide—as well as less seed and fertilizer—boosted their bottom line. The successful campaign, which involved a popular radio soap opera, is drawing attention from other countries in the region.

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