Pregnant Women Near Farms Had Higher Weedkiller Levels During Spraying Season

"Urine found to contain ‘significantly’ increased concentrations of glyphosate, which is associated with fetal problems"

"Pregnant women living near farm fields show “significantly” increased concentrations of glyphosate weedkiller in their urine during periods when farmers are spraying their fields with the herbicide, according to a new scientific paper published on Wednesday.

The research team said the findings were concerning, given recent studies that have found gestational exposure to glyphosate is associated with reduced fetal growth and other fetal problems. Glyphosate separately has been linked to cancer and other health problems.

“If the developing fetus is especially vulnerable to glyphosate, it is critical to understand the magnitude and sources of exposure during this critical developmental period,” the new paper states."

Carey Gillam reports for the Guardian December 6, 2023.

Source: Guardian, 12/08/2023