Agricultural spraying (proximity)
Pesticide spray drift
🟡 Several human studies point the same way, with a plausible biological mechanism, but the evidence is not yet conclusive.
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In brief
pesticide exposure: this page reviews Agricultural spraying (proximity) (Pesticide spray drift) — documented mechanism, everyday exposure situations and possible alternatives. Level of evidence: Probable.
- Where it's found
- Living or working near treated fields (large-scale crops, orchards, vineyards), particularly during spraying periods.
- Suspected mechanism
- Spray drift exposes nearby residents to pesticides via respiratory and skin routes, in addition to dietary exposure; several of the substances involved are endocrine disruptors or CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic) agents.
- Suggested alternative
- Close windows during treatment periods if you are notified; regulatory no-spray buffer zones exist but vary by crop type.
- Source
- ANSES, exposure studies of residents near agricultural areas; Générations Futures.
Frequently asked questions
Agricultural spraying (proximity): how is it linked to infertility?
Spray drift exposes nearby residents to pesticides via respiratory and skin routes, in addition to dietary exposure; several of the substances involved are endocrine disruptors or CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic) agents.
Where is Agricultural spraying (proximity) found in everyday life?
Living or working near treated fields (large-scale crops, orchards, vineyards), particularly during spraying periods.
How can exposure to Agricultural spraying (proximity) be reduced?
Close windows during treatment periods if you are notified; regulatory no-spray buffer zones exist but vary by crop type.
What is the level of evidence for Agricultural spraying (proximity)?
Probable. Several human studies point the same way, with a plausible biological mechanism, but the evidence is not yet conclusive.
Map your everyday exposures in about ten minutes.
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Related factors
Including a factor does not mean it causes infertility: it is simply worth monitoring, depending on its level of evidence.
Content last updated: September 14, 2026