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Hyönteismyrkky, commonly known as insecticide, refers to a class of chemical or biological agents designed to kill or control insects. These substances are widely used in agriculture, public health, and household pest control to protect crops, prevent disease transmission, and maintain hygiene. Insecticides target specific physiological processes in insects, such as the nervous system, respiration, or digestion, often through neurotoxic or systemic mechanisms.

The development of insecticides dates back centuries, with early examples including natural compounds like pyrethrum derived from chrysanthemum flowers. Modern synthetic insecticides, introduced in the mid-20th century, revolutionized pest control but also raised concerns about environmental and health impacts. Common classes include organophosphates, carbamates, neonicotinoids, and pyrethroids, each with distinct modes of action and toxicity profiles.

While insecticides play a crucial role in reducing crop losses and controlling disease vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, their overuse has led to resistance in pest populations and unintended ecological harm. Resistance occurs when insects develop genetic adaptations to survive exposure, necessitating the development of new formulations or integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Environmental risks include pollution of water bodies, harm to non-target species such as bees and birds, and potential long-term effects on soil health.

Regulatory agencies, such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), oversee the approval and use of insecticides to balance efficacy with safety. Public awareness and responsible application practices are encouraged to minimize risks. Alternatives to chemical insecticides include biological controls (e.g., predatory insects or bacteria like *Bacillus thuringiensis*), physical barriers, and cultural methods like crop rotation. Ongoing research focuses on sustainable and targeted solutions to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides.