boognish_bear said:
Was curious as I've never known anyone with an issue related to glyphosate, so I made this query on Gemini:
how does glyphosate health issues compare to other herbicides commonly used?
Answer:
Glyphosate, the world's most widely used herbicide, is considered to have low acute toxicity but is classified as a "probable human carcinogen" (Group 2A) by the IARC. Studies link it to non-Hodgkin lymphoma, liver diseases, and endocrine disruption. Compared to other herbicides, glyphosate has a higher cancer classification than some but is often less acutely toxic than older alternatives.
International Agency for Research on Cancer
International Agency for Research on Cancer
Glyphosate vs. Other Common Herbicides
Glyphosate: While the EPA considers it safe when used as labeled, independent research links it to non-Hodgkin lymphoma, kidney/liver damage, and neurological issues. It is linked to increased risk of chronic liver disease and is a "probable" carcinogen.
2,4-D: A common alternative, 2,4-D, has been linked to similar potential health hazards, including cancer and nervous system impacts, often leading to it being compared closely with glyphosate in risk assessments.
Dicamba & Paraquat: Dicamba has raised concerns over drift and volatility impacting non-target areas and health. Paraquat, though less widely used than glyphosate, is highly toxic if ingested, posing a much higher acute, fatal risk than glyphosate.
National Institutes of Health (.gov)
National Institutes of Health (.gov)
Key Health Risk Findings for Glyphosate
Cancer Risk: The IARC classified it as a Group 2A carcinogen (probably carcinogenic to humans) in 2015. A 2023 analysis suggested it raises cancer risk, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma, by 41%.
Childhood Exposure: Studies linked early life exposure to liver inflammation and metabolic disorder, potentially causing long-term health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Endocrine Disruption: Evidence suggests glyphosate-based formulations act as endocrine disruptors.
Formulation Toxicity: Research suggests that glyphosate formulations (like Roundup) are often more toxic than the active ingredient alone, sometimes containing heavy metals.
National Institutes of Health (.gov)
National Institutes of Health (.gov)
Regulatory Discrepancies
EPA (USA): Considers glyphosate low toxicity and unlikely to cause cancer in humans when used as directed.
IARC (WHO): Classified it as probably carcinogenic in 2015.
EFSA/JMPR: (European Food Safety Authority & WHO/FAO) determined it is unlikely to be a carcinogen.
