Reuters UK reports that exposure to common pesticides appears to increase the risk of asthma.

According to a study at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in North Carolina, a history of high pesticide exposure among farmers doubles the risk of asthma.

Lead researcher Dr. Jane A. Hoppin says, ‘Better education and training of farmers and pesticide handlers may help to reduce asthma risk.’

Protective gear such as masks may also help reduce the risk.

The CDC points out that pesticides can enter the body through the skin, eyes, mouth, and lungs. The CDC recommends that mixers, loaders, and applicators of pesticides wear protecting clothing including coveralls, apron, broad-rimmed waterproof hat, boots, rubber gloves, googles or faces shields, and respirator masks.