A decade of children's environmental health research

These 10 years of STAR research studies have shed light on how environmental exposures change from newborn to school-age children and on some of the genetic factors that contribute to children's vulnerability. This research has also provided insight on how to assess children's exposures, what biological markers tell us about exposure or effects, and what steps need to be taken to prevent harmful exposures. Some of the major findings of this research include: People metabolize pesticides differently based on their genotype; some faster, others slower. This finding is of particular concern during pregnancy, as many babies do not develop the ability to metabolize some pesticides during the first two years of life, putting them at greater risks of health effects. Children living close to major roadways in Southern California have a higher risk of asthma. EPA's ban on two household pesticides (diazinon and chlorpyrifos) resulted in a rapid decrease in exposures in New York City. Children born after the ban were also healthier. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) can be effectively implemented in urban areas to reduce both pesticide and allergen triggers. Community partners play a critical role in informing, implementing, and translating children's environmental health research.