Integrated Pest Management for Pesticide Exposure
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to reduce pesticide exposure in family child care homes by teaching directors about integrated pest management (IPM) practices. The process involves checking carpet dust for pesticides and providing tips to lower exposure over seven months. Directors of child care homes in specific California counties, who plan to remain open for at least a year, may be suitable candidates. Participants should be able to read and speak English or Spanish. As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to safer environments for children and families.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that integrated pest management practices are safe for reducing pesticide exposure in child care settings?
Research has shown that Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers a safe and sensible way to handle pest problems. IPM combines non-chemical methods with safer chemicals to control pests. This approach reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, making it a less toxic choice for people and the environment.
Studies indicate that IPM selects pesticides for their effectiveness and safety. These pesticides work well, act quickly, and are less likely to harm plants and people. By focusing on long-term pest prevention, IPM protects health while effectively managing pests.
Overall, IPM provides a safe method for managing pests, especially compared to traditional pesticide use. This makes it a promising option for those seeking to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about integrated pest management (IPM) for pesticide exposure because it offers a novel approach that focuses on prevention rather than remediation. Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on chemical pesticides, IPM emphasizes a combination of strategies like biological controls, habitat manipulation, and the use of resistant varieties to minimize pesticide use. This method not only aims to reduce harmful pesticide exposure but also promotes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to manage pests. By identifying pesticide exposure through dust samples and providing practical IPM toolkits, this approach has the potential to transform how communities handle pest management, making it safer for both people and the planet.
What evidence suggests that integrated pest management practices are effective for reducing pesticide exposure?
Studies have shown that integrated pest management (IPM) effectively reduces pest numbers. For example, one study found that apartments using IPM had fewer cockroaches than those that did not. In this trial, participants will receive an IPM toolkit and results from dust sample analysis identifying pesticide exposure. IPM not only eliminates pests but also reduces pesticide exposure, which can harm health. By using practical methods, IPM aims to control pests in an environmentally friendly way. This approach is especially important for lowering health risks linked to pesticide exposure.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Abbey Alkon, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for directors of family child care homes with 5+ children in select California counties, who plan to keep their facility open for at least a year. Participants must be able to read or speak English or Spanish.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Baseline interviews and environmental assessments are conducted with family child care home directors
Intervention
IPM educational meeting, distribution of IPM toolkit, and six monthly consultations to improve IPM practices and reduce pesticide use
Report-Back
Results of pesticide detection in carpet dust are shared with directors using DERBI
Follow-up
Post-intervention interviews and assessments to evaluate changes in IPM practices and pesticide use
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Integrated pest management (IPM) practices
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Collaborator