How insecticide exposure affects ADHD risk in adolescents

Adolescent Insecticide Exposure and ADHD Risk: Mechanisms of Immediate Effects and Long-term Vulnerability

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11046512

This study looks at how being around insecticides might affect the brains of teenagers, especially in ways that could lead to ADHD symptoms, and it focuses on young people who work with pesticides to better understand the short- and long-term effects on their brain development.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046512 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of insecticide exposure on the developing brains of adolescents, particularly focusing on how it may lead to symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The study examines both immediate and long-term effects of exposure, utilizing a cohort of adolescent pesticide applicators who experience higher levels of insecticide exposure. By analyzing neurobehavioral performance and potential biological mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how these exposures influence brain development and functioning during a critical growth period. The findings could help identify vulnerable populations and inform preventive measures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have been exposed to insecticides, particularly those in agricultural settings.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those who have not been exposed to insecticides may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention of ADHD symptoms linked to environmental exposures in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential links between environmental exposures and neurobehavioral outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.