A report published by the World Health Organization has classified Glyphosate as substance, which is “probably carcinogenic to humans”. Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the world. It has now been identified as a substance, which damages the human DNA and cause cancer.
After consulting 17 cancer experts from 11 countries across the globe, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) had announced their assessment. Workers exposed to such pesticides and herbicides were studied by the U.S, Canada and Sweden. They found that herbicides such as glyphosate do indeed increase the risks of non Hodgkin lymphoma. However, there are strong evidences to suggest that the chemical induces cancer to lab animals.
Another study conducted in Sri Lanka conducted by the Rajarata University was also published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The study found a link between glyphosate and chronic kidney disease among farm-workers. The study also found that excessive heat and dehydration may be the cause weakening of the worker’s body. This makes them more susceptible to cancer and kidney disorders.
However, Monsanto had objected to this publication. Philip Miller, the Vice President of the agrochemical giant wanted a plausible explanation on how the WHO deviated from the conclusions made by all regulatory agencies working around the globe. Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency had approved Monsanto’s request to increase the legal tolerance level of glyphosate in 2013. The U.S government had also approved of the chemical to be used as a herbicide.
The report has also mentioned about Malathion, which was a chemical used to repel mosquitoes by the city of Winnipeg. The chemical is now being associated to prostate cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomia as well.
The WHO and the IARC concluded the report by validating their reason to present the herbicide as a carcinogenic substance. The officials mentioned in the report that the evidences date back to exposure since 2001.