Assessing the health risks of chlorpyrifos exposure on humans

Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphorus pesticide widely used in agriculture and domestic pest control. While effective against many pests, increasing evidence links its persistence and bioaccumulation to serious human health risks. Exposure occurs mainly through dietary intake, inhalation, and dermal absorption, with agricultural workers and vulnerable populations at the highest risk. Its primary toxic mechanism is acetylcholinesterase inhibition, causing excess acetylcholine and cholinergic overstimulation. Beyond acute neurotoxicity, chronic exposure is associated with endocrine disruption, genotoxicity, reproductive impairment, developmental toxicity, immunosuppression, renal and hepatic dysfunction, and cardiovascular effects. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered signalling pathways further contribute to long-term organ damage. This review compiles findings from experimental and epidemiological studies to provide a comprehensive overview of these risks. Chlorpyrifos exposure affects neurological, reproductive, metabolic, and immune systems, highlighting the need for stricter regulations, safer agricultural practices, and effective public health strategies. Future research should clarify molecular mechanisms and identify protective interventions to support informed policy decisions and minimize adverse outcomes.