The effects of insecticides on child growth and puberty in South Africa
Official title: Exposure to Insecticides and Child Growth and Pubertal Development in a South African Population Exposed Through Indoor Residual Spraying
Funded at Mcgill University · NIH-10976429 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the insecticides used in homes to fight malaria might be affecting the growth and development of children in South Africa, especially in relation to rising obesity and early puberty, so we can better understand any health risks for kids living in these areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mcgill University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Montreal, Canada) |
| Project start | November 22, 2019 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $398,105 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES030411-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10976429 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in areas where indoor residual spraying is practiced.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in regions with indoor insecticide exposure or who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to insecticides used in homes for malaria control affects the growth and development of children in South Africa. It focuses on understanding the relationship between these chemicals and the increasing rates of obesity and early puberty in young children. By examining the impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals like DDT and pyrethroids, the study aims to identify potential health risks associated with indoor insecticide spraying. The research involves collecting data from children in affected areas to analyze growth patterns and developmental milestones.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health guidelines and interventions to protect children from harmful effects of insecticides.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated potential links between endocrine disruptors and obesity, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Mcgill University
Montreal, Canada Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chevrier, Jonathan — Mcgill University
- Study coordinator: Chevrier, Jonathan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.