Global Perspective Types Fun Facts/ Games Credits Members Home About Effects Consumers What Is A Pest March Of The Pests    Pesticides are toxic substances designed to kill or repel pests, but in addition to being harmful to pests, they can cause symptoms in humans, including nausea, headaches, rashes and dizziness. Many are also linked to chronic diseases and conditions such as cancer, birth defects, neurological and reproductive disorders, and to the development of chemical sensitivities.  Most people have no idea that the majority of health care institutions use chemical pesticides on a regular basis, both inside or outside of their facilities. People generally visit health care facilities because their health has already being affected in some way. They may have compromised immune, neurological, and digestive and respiratory systems that put them at increased risk of suffering harmful effects from exposure to pesticides. The elderly, pregnant women, chemically sensitive individuals, and infants and children are especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of pesticides.