Premature thelarche and pesticide exposure: A case-control study in an intensive agricultural area

The extensive use of pesticides in agriculture significantly enhances crop yields and pest control. However, it also raises concerns regarding environmental and human health impacts. Children are particularly vulnerable to health effects of pesticide exposure, especially for neurological development and reproductive health. This study aims to evaluate the association between dietary pesticide exposure and idiopathic premature thelarche in girls living in an intensive agricultural area in central Italy. Using a case-control study, pesticide residues exposure was assessed through dietary intake of local food and by urinary levels. Results showed that the dietary intake of some pesticides from fruit and vegetables was higher in affected girls than healthy controls, although not significantly associated with idiopathic premature thelarche risk. Moreover, low health risk was obtained for cumulative dietary exposure. Despite this, further efforts are needed to reduce pesticide residues in food due to their potential endocrine disrupting properties, considering that diet may be one of several sources of exposure, especially in rural areas.