Medical Officer of Health Position on the Cosmetic Use of Pesticides

May 2007

The health literature respecting pesticides is complex.  It is characterized by contradictory findings, poor exposure information, and gaps in our knowledge respecting mixed exposures and subtle long-term effects among children exposed prenatally and in early life.

The health impacts that have been associated with pesticides, although not consistently, include adverse reproductive and neurological effects  and some forms of cancer. A few studies, directed at exposure around conception, during pregnancy, and in early infancy, have found a moderate increase in some cancers and birth defects.

Given this evidence, the precautionary principle applies. The Medical Officer of Health believes that pesticide use should be avoided when the only benefit is an aesthetic one.

Given the limitations of current provincial and federal regulations, the Medical Officer of Health supports initiatives and measures taken by municipalities to reduce the use of pesticides for lawn care including by-laws that restrict pesticide use on private property.

 Dr. Bob Nosal
 Medical Officer of Health
 Halton Region