Acaricides with endocrine-disrupting effects represent an overlooked yet significant environmental and human health threat in tropical regions. These pesticides, including organophosphates, pyrethroids, and amitraz extensively used to control tick and mite infestations, pose considerable risks due to their potential to act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). They can interfere with endocrine function by binding to hormone receptors, disrupting hormone synthesis, and inhibiting key enzymatic pathways. The interference with endocrine function is associated with adverse outcomes in humans and wildlife, particularly aquatic ecosystems. The disruptions include reproductive and developmental abnormalities, immune suppression, population declines, and ecological imbalances. Chronic exposure is further associated with thyroid dysfunction and an increased risk of hormone-related cancers. In tropical environments, where acaricide application is intensive due to the high ectoparasite population, the risks are compounded by weak regulatory frameworks and inadequate environmental monitoring. This paper highlights the urgent need for the promotion of eco-friendly alternatives such as biopesticides, and the implementation of integrated pest management strategies. In conclusion, without timely and coordinated interventions, endocrine-disrupting acaricides will continue to pose an escalating threat to human health and biodiversity across tropical ecosystems.
Vedastus W. Makene (Thu,) studied this question.