Scientists Uncover Hidden Brain Damage from Widely Used Pesticide

Breaking News: Scientists Uncover Hidden Brain Damage from Common Pesticide Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, in collaboration with teams from Children's Hospital Los Angeles and the Keck School of Medicine of USC, have made a groundbreaking discovery linking prenatal exposure to the insecticide chlorpyrifos (CPF) to lasting brain structure abnormalities and poorer motor skills in children and adolescents. This study, published on November 7, 2025, is the first to reveal measurable differences in brain structure and reduced motor skills in children exposed to CPF in utero. The investigation, which focused on children and adolescents in New York City, found that these brain and motor abnormalities persist for years after birth. The study's findings are a stark reminder that even after a residential ban, ongoing agricultural use of CPF continues to endanger developing brains. The researchers identified a connection between CPF exposure and widespread brain abnormalities, including changes in the structure of the brain's white matter, which is crucial for motor skills and cognitive function. The study's lead author emphasized the urgency of the findings, stating that "the effects of CPF exposure on brain development are lasting and irreversible, highlighting the need for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations." The researchers are calling for stricter regulations on CPF use in agriculture and for further research into the long-term effects of exposure. The use of CPF has been a topic of controversy for years, with many countries banning its use due to concerns over its impact on human health and the environment. In the United States, CPF was banned for residential use in 2020, but it remains widely used in agriculture. The study's findings serve as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and action to protect public health and the environment. As the scientific community continues to grapple with the implications of this study, policymakers and regulatory agencies are under pressure to take action. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to review the safety of CPF and consider new restrictions on its use. The study's findings are a wake-up call for the agricultural industry, which must now confront the reality of CPF's impact on human health and the environment. The study's authors are clear that further research is needed to fully understand the effects of CPF exposure on brain development and to identify effective strategies for mitigating its impact. As the scientific community continues to investigate the effects of CPF, one thing is clear: the time for action is now.