6th Edition of Neurology World Conference 2026

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Plant Protection Products (PPPs) are essential components of modern agricultural systems, contributing significantly to crop productivity, nutrients quality, and global food security. Nevertheless, increasing scientific evidence indicates that chronic exposure to certain PPPs may be associated with an elevated risk of neurodegenerative diseases, raising concerns regarding occupational health, environmental safety, and the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices.

Objective: This review aims to examine current epidemiological and experimental evidence linking exposure to plant protection products with neurodegenerative diseases, while discussing potential risk-mitigation strategies to rebuild a more sustainable agricultural sector.

Methods: A narrative review of the scientific literature published over the last two decades was conducted, encompassing epidemiological investigations, experimental studies, and systematic reviews addressing occupational and environmental exposure to PPPs and their association with neurodegenerative disorders. Particular emphasis was placed on major classes of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides, as well as the neurotoxic mechanisms reported in the literature.

Results: Available evidence consistently suggests that long-term exposure to specific plant protection products is associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Parkinson’s disease, among agricultural workers and rural populations. Proposed biological mechanisms include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, impaired protein homeostasis, abnormal protein aggregation, and disruption of dopaminergic neurotransmission. Although the evidence linking PPP exposure to other neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, remains less consistent, emerging findings indicate plausible associations that merit further investigation. Preventive approaches such as integrated pest management, precision agriculture technologies, improved operator training, and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment have demonstrated potential to reduce exposure and mitigate health risks.

Conclusions: The relationship between exposure to plant protection products and neurodegenerative diseases represents a growing area of concern at the interface of agricultural sciences, toxicology, and neurology. Advancing sustainable crop protection strategies while minimizing human exposure is essential to safeguard agricultural workers and reduce potential long-term neurological consequences. Future research integrating epidemiology, mechanistic toxicology, exposure science, and public health will be crucial for strengthening the evidence base and supporting the development of science-based policies that promote both agricultural productivity and human health.

Keywords: plant protection products; neurodegenerative diseases; Parkinson’s disease; Alzheimer’s disease; occupational exposure; neurotoxicity; oxidative stress; sustainable agriculture; integrated pest management.