Study: Pesticides Pose Cancer Risk Comparable to Smoking
A recent US study highlights the significant cancer risk posed by exposure to certain pesticides, comparing it to the well-known risk of smoking. The study compiled data on 69 pesticides, including four commonly used in India, and found that pesticide exposure had a more pronounced effect than smoking for certain types of cancer.
Key Findings
Researchers identified three types of cancer—non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leukaemia, and bladder cancer—where pesticide exposure had a more significant impact than smoking. The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Cancer Control and Society, emphasizes that it is the combination of multiple pesticides, rather than a single one, that increases cancer risk.
Major Pesticide Contributors
The study lists 69 major pesticides widely used in India to protect crops from insects and weeds, including
- 2,4-D, Acephate
- Metolachlor
- Methomyl
The analysis used cancer incidence rates from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) from 2015 to 2019.
Regional Variations in Cancer Risk
The study also found that cancer risk is associated with the types of crops grown in different regions.
- For instance, certain areas in the western US, known for higher fruit and vegetable production, showed increased cancer risks compared to other areas like the Midwest.
- Regional agricultural use patterns play a crucial role in cancer incidence.
Comprehensive Analysis
This national, population-based study is the first to compare pesticide usage to a well-known cancer risk factor, such as smoking. The researchers pointed out that in real-world scenarios, people are exposed to multiple pesticides simultaneously, rather than just one.
Data Availability
Details about the use of the 69 pesticides listed in the study are available through the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The study underscores the need to consider the combined effects of various pesticides to understand the full scope of their impact on cancer risk.
Conclusions
The findings of this study highlight the significant health risks posed by pesticide exposure, particularly for certain types of cancer. It calls for more comprehensive evaluations of pesticide use and its long-term effects on public health.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
