Indirect exposure to organophosphate pesticides and its possible growth disorders in children of farmers in Northwest Mexico

PURPOSE: This study investigated the correlation between growth disorders and indirect pesticide exposure in children of farmers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 134 children of farmers occupationally exposed to organophosphate pesticides in the ejido Venustiano Carranza, an agricultural community in San Quintín, Baja California, Mexico. These children were compared with a control group of 56 unexposed children. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical analyses were performed in both groups to evaluate renal, hepatic, and nutritional profiles. Hormonal profiles were quantified using ELISA techniques. Cholinesterases are quantified using known colorimetric methods. Food security was also analyzed through a dietary diversity study, focusing on households. RESULTS: Indirectly exposed group showed a higher prevalence of stunting (18% vs. 16.4%) than controls. Food safety was adequate in both groups (X2 = 1.88, p = 0.597). The indirectly exposure children showed significantly higher calcium levels (9.99 ± 0.63 mg/dL) and significant increases in liver enzymes AST and GGT (p < 0.001). ALP was 1.5 times lower than in unexposed children (p < 0.001), showing a strong association with exposure time (p = 0.009). The indirectly exposed group showed lower GH and IGF-1 levels; 2.55 and 1.28 times lower than in controls, respectively. Children with indirect exposure showed a significant reduction in AChE (7211 ± 1917 vs. 8368 ± 213 U/L, p < 0.001) and an even greater decrease in BChE (6426 ± 1664 vs. 8025 ± 1462 U/L, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This work demonstrates an association between environmental exposure to organophosphate pesticides and children's growth and provides crucial insights for future research and policymaking.