D

DDT, DDD, DDE

CASRN 50-29-3, 72-55-9, 72-54-8

Physical Properties

DDT (1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane), DDD (1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane), and DDE (1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethylene are white crystalline tasteless, and almost odorless solids. The melting point of DDT and DDD is about 109 ºC (Celsius). The melting point of DDE is about 89 ºC. DDD and DDE are breakdown products of DDT in the environment. Both DDD and DDE are products of the breakdown of DDT in the environment.

Uses

DDT is a broad spectrum insecticide that was very popular due its effectiveness, long residual persistence, low acute mammalian toxicity, and low cost. DDT was first used as an insecticide starting in 1939 and widely used until about 1970. During World War II, it was extensively employed for the control of malaria, typhus, and other insect-transmitted diseases. In 1972, the EPA banned the uses for DDT in the United States except in the case of a public health emergency. DDT is currently utilized indoors in some countries where malaria remains a major health problem. DDD was also used as an insecticide and is used medically in the treatment of cancer of the adrenal gland. There is no commercial use of DDE.

Sources of Exposure in Iowa

People are exposed to very small amounts of DDT, DDD, and DDE in the foods that they may eat. The largest fraction of DDT in a person's diet comes from meat, poultry, dairy products, and fish, including the consumption of recreationally caught fish. The amount of DDT contained in foods is below levels that can affect a person’s health. Although not common today, exposure to DDT could also occur through inhalation or absorption through the skin during the handling of containers holding DDT. DDT or its breakdown products are still present in some air, water, and soil samples. However, levels in most air and water samples are presently so low that exposure is of little concern.

Health Effects from Large Acute Exposures

Exposure to large amounts of DDT can affect the nervous system. Effects can vary from mild excitability to tremors and convulsions. Exposure to large amounts of DDT, DDD, and DDE would be very rare.

Health Effects from Smaller, Chronic Exposures

Thus far, there is no conclusive evidence that exposure to DDT, DDD, and DDE at the levels found in the environment has affected reproduction and development in humans, but there is sufficient information from animal studies that these chemicals have the potential for doing so. DDT, DDD, and DDE are classified as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based upon studies completed on animals.

Protection from Exposure

Gloves should be worn when handling old pesticide containers that may contain DDT.