A meta-analysis of Parkinson's disease and exposure to pesticides

This study examined the association between Parkinson's disease (PD) and ex posure to pesticides. A series of meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies we re performed using 19 studies published between 1989 and 1999. Prior to the meta-analysis, all studies were reviewed and evaluated for heterogeneity a nd publication bias. Significant heterogeneity among studies was detected a nd combined odds ratio (OR) was calculated using the random effect model. T he majority of the studies reported consistent elevation in the risk of PD with exposure to pesticides. The combined OR studies was 1.94 [95% confiden ce interval (95% CI) 1.49-2.53] for all the studies, and 2.15 (95% CI 1.14- 4.05) for studies performed in United States. Although the risk of PD incre ased with increased duration of exposure to pesticides, no significant dose -response relation was established, and no specific type of pesticide was i dentified Our findings suggest that exposure to pesticides may be a signifi cant risk factor for developing PD. (C) 2000 Inter Press, Inc.