Chlordecone still impacts cognitive development in children

Demonstration in Fort-de-France, Martinique, on February 27, 2021, against the use and health consequences of the insecticide chlordecone used in the West Indies until 1993. AFP - LIONEL CHAMOISEAU

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Despite the cessation of its use in the Antilles 30 years ago as an insecticide, chlordecone persisting in the environment continues to contaminate populations.

An international research team, involving researchers from Inserm, shows that prenatal and postnatal exposure to chlordecone impacts the cognitive development of children.

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It is an observation made in animals that is at the origin of this study on humans.

Indeed, several studies have shown that the exposure of females to chlordecone during gestation leads to neurobehavioral and learning disorders within the litter.

Several scientists have therefore studied the human being.

To carry out this study, 576 Guadeloupean children were examined and followed.

These analyzes show that prenatal exposure to

increases behavioral difficulties, such as relational or emotional problems, particularly in girls.

Postnatal exposure would be responsible for a slight decrease in intellectual abilities, but also for more frequent anger and hyperactivity, in both girls and boys.

According to the research team, it is therefore more important than ever to pursue policies aimed at

among the most sensitive populations, such as pregnant women and children.

► To read also: Chlordecone scandal: how France contaminated more than 90% of the population of the Antilles?

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