In December 2019 researchers from Spain published the results of their study which assessed the amount of organophosphate pesticides found in the urine of pregnant women. A total of 157 women from an area of intense agricultural activity were included in the study. Urine samples from the three trimesters of pregnancy were analysed. Results showed that the highest concentrations found were for 2-Diethylamino-6-methylpyrimidin-4-ol followed by 4-Nitrophenol. 2-Isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidol was also present but in lower concentrations. Apart from 2-Diethylamino-6-methylpyrimidin-4-ol, the levels of organophosphate pesticides found in this group of women were lower than those reported in studies from other countries. In general, no association was found between urinary organophosphate pesticides metabolites and most individuals and their lifestyle. However, it was noted that women who consumed a vegetarian diet with the use of organic food had higher urinary levels of 4-Nitrophenol. The researchers concluded that a higher fruit and vegetable consumption may involve a higher organophosphate pesticide ingestion.
Bravo N et al. Organophosphate metabolite concentrations in maternal urine during pregnancy. Environ Res. 2019 Dec 5;182:109003. [Epub ahead of print]