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Agricultural health is the study of environmental, occupational, dietary, and genetic factors on the health of farmers, farm families, pesticide applicators, and others who work with and are exposed to agricultural chemicals.

Introduction

Man applying pesticides to field

Agricultural health is the study of environmental, occupational, dietary, and genetic factors on the health of farmers, farm families, pesticide applicators, and others who work with and are exposed to agricultural chemicals. NIEHS is a partner with the National Cancer Institute in the Agricultural Health Study, a long-term study of 60,000 pesticide applicators, farm workers, and their spouses that is exploring the potential links between agricultural exposures and cancer and other chronic diseases.

What is NIEHS Doing?

NIEHS Research Efforts

  • Agricultural Health Study The Agricultural Health Study works to understand how agricultural, lifestyle, and genetic factors affect the health of farming populations.
  • Captafol Profile: Report on Carcinogens U.S. workers previously were exposed to captafol during its production, formulation, or application to agricultural fields; on reentry to a sprayed field; or when working with treated timber products.
  • Climate Change and Human Health The major public health organizations of the world have said that climate change is a critical public health problem.

Further Reading

Stories from the Environmental Factor (NIEHS Newsletter)

Related Health Topics

Research Links

For Educators

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