Pesticides might be as carcinogenic as smoking, according to a new study, which links their widespread use to a significant increase in cancer cases across the Midwest.
Saul Elbein reports for The Hill.
In short:
- The study highlights that pesticides, like those used in the corn belt states, may cause hundreds of thousands of additional cancer cases annually.
- Glyphosate, a common pesticide, is already labeled as potentially cancer-causing, but the study stresses the compounded risk of multiple pesticides.
- Researchers suggest that homebuyers should be informed about local pesticide exposure risks, similar to school quality or job market data.
Key quote:
“In the real world, it is not likely that people are exposed to a single pesticide, but more to a cocktail of pesticides within their region.”
— Isain Zapata, Rocky Vista University
Why this matters:
Even if you've never stepped foot on a farm, you might still be playing a dangerous game every time you munch on your favorite fruit or veggies. Read more in our three-part series: Adrift: Communities on the front lines of pesticide exposure fight for change.
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