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What's really on your plate? How pesticide residues could increase your cancer risk
Scientific studies link long-term exposure to pesticide residues in food with increased cancer risk, especially for vulnerable groups. Experts highlight the importance of washing produce, choosing organic options and advocating safer farming. Policy reforms and farmer education are crucial for reducing pesticide misuse and ensuring food safety, protecting both health and the environment. read more
Scientific evidence indicates that long-term exposure to pesticide residues in food can increase the risk of certain cancers, say leading medical and agricultural experts. While the risk to a single consumer from low-level exposure is generally low, chronic consumption, especially of produce with high pesticide loads can have cumulative health effects.
Explaning the complex relationship between pesticide residues and cancer risk. Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, (Gurugram), said, 'Yes, scientific research indicates a potential relationship between chronic exposure to certain pesticide residues in food and the heightened risk of developing some forms of cancer,' he told Firstpost.
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'While risk to a single consumer from low-level exposure via diet is generally found to be low, chronic consumption over years, particularly of commodities with high pesticide loads, can cumulatively lead to health problems.'
Pesticides, he said, are intended to kill or repel pests, but some chemical constituents can disrupt biological processes in humans. 'Some pesticides are endocrine disruptors, genotoxic (toxic to DNA), or immunotoxic, which can cause cellular alterations and enhance cancer risk in the long run.' He pointed out that the World Health Organisation's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has categorised several pesticides as 'possibly' or 'probably' carcinogenic to humans based on epidemiological and animal evidence.
Dr. Rohatgi added that certain groups—farm workers and people living in high pesticide-use areas face increased risk through direct occupational exposure. 'For the general population, particularly when exposure is through food residues, the evidence continues to be investigated, and the risk, although real, is still regarded as relatively modest compared to other cancer risks such as tobacco smoking, alcohol, obesity, and infectious agents.'
He identified specific pesticides linked to carcinogenicity:
Glyphosate, a widespread herbicide, is classified by IARC as 'probably carcinogenic to humans' (Group 2A) based on its association with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in occupational exposures. However, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concluded it is not carcinogenic at dietary exposure levels, a point of ongoing scientific debate.
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Malathion and Diazinon, both organophosphate insecticides, are classified as 'probably carcinogenic' by IARC, with malathion linked to prostate cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Chlorpyrifos, another organophosphate insecticide, is under regulatory scrutiny for developmental and neurological toxicity, though it is not formally classified as carcinogenic by IARC.
DDT, although banned in most countries, still persists environmentally and is considered 'probably carcinogenic' by IARC with links to liver and breast cancers.
'Trace amounts of these pesticides can be found on fruits, vegetables, and cereals depending on agricultural practices and regulatory standards in different countries,' said Dr. Rohatgi.
On practical steps, Dr. Rohatgi advised consumers to minimize pesticide exposure with several measures. 'Rinse fruits and vegetables well—running water can remove surface residues. Soaking produce in a baking soda solution (1 tsp per 2 cups of water) for 10–15 minutes might take away even more residues.' He recommended peeling certain items such as apples, cucumbers, and potatoes, though he noted this may reduce nutrient content.
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He also suggested buying organic produce when possible, especially for items on the 'Dirty Dozen' list known for high pesticide residues, such as strawberries, spinach, and apples. Diversifying one's diet and consulting local pesticide residue reports from food safety agencies are further ways to reduce risk.
'Finally,' he said, 'promoting safer agriculture practices such as integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming, along with stricter pesticide regulations, can lead to long-term improvements.'
Dr. Pushpinder Gulia, Director of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Oncosurgery at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, echoed these concerns. 'Long-term exposure to certain pesticide residues in food has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in several epidemiological and laboratory studies,' he said. He emphasised that while regulatory bodies set maximum residue limits (MRLs) considered 'safe,' cumulative exposure can still pose risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and farmworkers.
Dr. Gulia highlighted commonly found pesticides with carcinogenic potential: 'Glyphosate is used in crops like corn and soy; chlorpyrifos is an insecticide in fruits and vegetables; malathion and diazinon are insecticides used in agriculture; and atrazine is a herbicide used in corn fields.'
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He advised consumers to make smart food choices: 'Buy organic, particularly for high-residue items. Choose locally grown produce from smaller farms that often use fewer chemicals. Wash and peel fruits and vegetables thoroughly—washing under running water helps, and peeling removes residues but also some nutrients.'
For washing, Dr. Gulia recommended 'soaking in a 10% vinegar solution or baking soda wash (1 tsp baking soda per 2 cups water) for 15 minutes to remove surface residues.' He added that cooking or blanching may reduce some residues but can also diminish nutrients.
To further reduce risks, he urged diet diversification: 'Rotate the types and sources of produce to avoid repeated exposure to the same pesticides and balance nutrient intake.'
On the regulatory and policy front, Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus of Dhanuka Agritech Limited, said India needs a robust policy framework to monitor and regulate pesticide use effectively. 'Modernising the outdated Insecticides Act of 1968 is critical to align regulations with current scientific knowledge and pest control methods,' he said. 'Strengthening registration and licensing with rigorous health and environmental risk assessments will help remove dangerous, spurious, and unapproved products.'
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Dr. Agarwal stressed the importance of strict penalties to discourage violations and the immediate phase-out of extremely hazardous pesticides, especially those banned internationally. He cautioned against misconceptions that scientifically approved pesticides inherently cause cancer. 'The threat comes from misuse, unapproved products, or excessive application, not from proper use of qualified products.'
He called for farmer education on safe pesticide handling, integrated pest management, and bio-pesticides. 'Effective enforcement, transparent labeling, availability of protective equipment, and stakeholder coordination are essential to protect health and make agriculture sustainable.'
Dr. Agarwal also emphasised training dealers and distributors to promote responsible pesticide use and provide accurate recommendations to farmers, ensuring safety in the field.
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The Hindu
6 hours ago
- The Hindu
The organic imperative
Organic food is often derided as being expensive, which it can be, and elitist, which it isn't, the focus in such categorisation being on the consumer. Yet, there is little understanding of the systemic and human consequences of conventional agriculture, as chemical-centric farming is termed. For instance, there is little acknowledgement of what a farming family endures in their daily life when supplying the market with produce that is grown with a cocktail of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides and the unintended consequences of having these poisons lying around in the farm or their home. The agrochemical stores that sell these products almost never offers safety gloves or advise the farmer on personal safety. The safe-application dosage is provided in gross — and, I would argue, negligent — approximation. As a consequence, it is common to see farm hands fill up the sprayer with water, add the chemical — often a deadly poison — with bare hands, load the tanks on their back and spray without any sort of protective covering. While some crops require less sprays, others, such as cotton, demand heavy dosages of pesticides and the outcome is expected, if depressing. Since everyone uses these chemicals with little caution, it is seen as the norm and not unusual in the least. Young farmers taking to the profession follow suit which is particularly disheartening to see, for it is highly probable that the deleterious effects of regular usage — disruption of the endocrine system, genetic damage, alteration to the functioning of the pituitary gland, fertility and birth defects, cancers, lung ailments, autoimmune conditions, among others — will visit them in some years. The choices of chemicals available in the nearby agrochemicals shop and toxicity of 'crop protection' products, as the basket of pesticides is euphemistically referred to, are utterly frightening to contemplate: weedicides such as Glyphosate, considered to be a possible carcinogen, were introduced in India a couple of decades ago and are used widely as a substitute to manual labour in weed control, broadening the number of highly dangerous chemicals farmhands will be exposed to. The impact of these chemicals on wildlife — insects, birds, mammals, reptiles — is now known as a result of well-documented published research, yet the learnings have been ignored in the making of policy decisions, even when the effect on human food supply is likely to be acutely affected in future. As an example, it is known that neonicotinoids, a class of systemic insecticides widely used in agriculture and veterinary medicine to control pests, are dangerous neurotoxic chemicals for bees and other pollinators, yet few countries around the world are able to fend off the lobbying efforts of the pesticide industry and ban them. Corrupting the food chain It is now also understood that chemical fertilizers and pesticides leach into groundwater, streams, lakes and rivers, affecting the aquatic biota and the food chain all the way to mammals. A pioneering study done over 30 years ago found that organochlorine pesticide residues were determined in otter faeces from nine catchment regions in southwestern England from 1989 to 1991. 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There is an active plastic recycling economy, in which aggregators visit farms and buy such used bottles which are then sent to be recycled to another product. When we consider the fumes breathed in and the exposure to toxins by thousands of poor workers in the informal recycling sector as these bottles are melted or converted into plastic chips, the supply chain and its unintended consequences becomes clearer. None of this is documented or even satisfactorily understood, nor is there any ongoing study that could provide clues to the scale and insidiousness of the problem. Buying organic food is perhaps the optimal solution, as increasing demand from consumers will encourage the transition for some farmers, either individually or as farmer producer organisations, to sustainable ways of farming. The valid question often asked is about the genuineness of the organic produce we see online or on shelves. 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First Post
14 hours ago
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What's really on your plate? How pesticide residues could increase your cancer risk
Scientific studies link long-term exposure to pesticide residues in food with increased cancer risk, especially for vulnerable groups. Experts highlight the importance of washing produce, choosing organic options and advocating safer farming. Policy reforms and farmer education are crucial for reducing pesticide misuse and ensuring food safety, protecting both health and the environment. read more Scientific evidence indicates that long-term exposure to pesticide residues in food can increase the risk of certain cancers, say leading medical and agricultural experts. While the risk to a single consumer from low-level exposure is generally low, chronic consumption, especially of produce with high pesticide loads can have cumulative health effects. Explaning the complex relationship between pesticide residues and cancer risk. Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi, Senior Director of Medical Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, (Gurugram), said, 'Yes, scientific research indicates a potential relationship between chronic exposure to certain pesticide residues in food and the heightened risk of developing some forms of cancer,' he told Firstpost. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'While risk to a single consumer from low-level exposure via diet is generally found to be low, chronic consumption over years, particularly of commodities with high pesticide loads, can cumulatively lead to health problems.' Pesticides, he said, are intended to kill or repel pests, but some chemical constituents can disrupt biological processes in humans. 'Some pesticides are endocrine disruptors, genotoxic (toxic to DNA), or immunotoxic, which can cause cellular alterations and enhance cancer risk in the long run.' He pointed out that the World Health Organisation's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has categorised several pesticides as 'possibly' or 'probably' carcinogenic to humans based on epidemiological and animal evidence. Dr. Rohatgi added that certain groups—farm workers and people living in high pesticide-use areas face increased risk through direct occupational exposure. 'For the general population, particularly when exposure is through food residues, the evidence continues to be investigated, and the risk, although real, is still regarded as relatively modest compared to other cancer risks such as tobacco smoking, alcohol, obesity, and infectious agents.' He identified specific pesticides linked to carcinogenicity: Glyphosate, a widespread herbicide, is classified by IARC as 'probably carcinogenic to humans' (Group 2A) based on its association with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in occupational exposures. However, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concluded it is not carcinogenic at dietary exposure levels, a point of ongoing scientific debate. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Malathion and Diazinon, both organophosphate insecticides, are classified as 'probably carcinogenic' by IARC, with malathion linked to prostate cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Chlorpyrifos, another organophosphate insecticide, is under regulatory scrutiny for developmental and neurological toxicity, though it is not formally classified as carcinogenic by IARC. DDT, although banned in most countries, still persists environmentally and is considered 'probably carcinogenic' by IARC with links to liver and breast cancers. 'Trace amounts of these pesticides can be found on fruits, vegetables, and cereals depending on agricultural practices and regulatory standards in different countries,' said Dr. Rohatgi. On practical steps, Dr. Rohatgi advised consumers to minimize pesticide exposure with several measures. 'Rinse fruits and vegetables well—running water can remove surface residues. Soaking produce in a baking soda solution (1 tsp per 2 cups of water) for 10–15 minutes might take away even more residues.' He recommended peeling certain items such as apples, cucumbers, and potatoes, though he noted this may reduce nutrient content. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He also suggested buying organic produce when possible, especially for items on the 'Dirty Dozen' list known for high pesticide residues, such as strawberries, spinach, and apples. Diversifying one's diet and consulting local pesticide residue reports from food safety agencies are further ways to reduce risk. 'Finally,' he said, 'promoting safer agriculture practices such as integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming, along with stricter pesticide regulations, can lead to long-term improvements.' Dr. Pushpinder Gulia, Director of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Oncosurgery at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, echoed these concerns. 'Long-term exposure to certain pesticide residues in food has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in several epidemiological and laboratory studies,' he said. He emphasised that while regulatory bodies set maximum residue limits (MRLs) considered 'safe,' cumulative exposure can still pose risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and farmworkers. Dr. Gulia highlighted commonly found pesticides with carcinogenic potential: 'Glyphosate is used in crops like corn and soy; chlorpyrifos is an insecticide in fruits and vegetables; malathion and diazinon are insecticides used in agriculture; and atrazine is a herbicide used in corn fields.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He advised consumers to make smart food choices: 'Buy organic, particularly for high-residue items. Choose locally grown produce from smaller farms that often use fewer chemicals. Wash and peel fruits and vegetables thoroughly—washing under running water helps, and peeling removes residues but also some nutrients.' For washing, Dr. Gulia recommended 'soaking in a 10% vinegar solution or baking soda wash (1 tsp baking soda per 2 cups water) for 15 minutes to remove surface residues.' He added that cooking or blanching may reduce some residues but can also diminish nutrients. To further reduce risks, he urged diet diversification: 'Rotate the types and sources of produce to avoid repeated exposure to the same pesticides and balance nutrient intake.' On the regulatory and policy front, Dr. R.G. Agarwal, Chairman Emeritus of Dhanuka Agritech Limited, said India needs a robust policy framework to monitor and regulate pesticide use effectively. 'Modernising the outdated Insecticides Act of 1968 is critical to align regulations with current scientific knowledge and pest control methods,' he said. 'Strengthening registration and licensing with rigorous health and environmental risk assessments will help remove dangerous, spurious, and unapproved products.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Dr. Agarwal stressed the importance of strict penalties to discourage violations and the immediate phase-out of extremely hazardous pesticides, especially those banned internationally. He cautioned against misconceptions that scientifically approved pesticides inherently cause cancer. 'The threat comes from misuse, unapproved products, or excessive application, not from proper use of qualified products.' He called for farmer education on safe pesticide handling, integrated pest management, and bio-pesticides. 'Effective enforcement, transparent labeling, availability of protective equipment, and stakeholder coordination are essential to protect health and make agriculture sustainable.' Dr. Agarwal also emphasised training dealers and distributors to promote responsible pesticide use and provide accurate recommendations to farmers, ensuring safety in the field.
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
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This one change in your night routine could dramatically lower your cancer risk
Cancer specialists are increasingly recognising that modern lifestyle habits — especially those affecting sleep — can influence long-term cancer risk. One of the most overlooked threats is the disruption of our body's internal clock due to artificial light, particularly the blue light emitted from digital screens. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kiran Kamalasanan, consultant, surgical oncology at Apollo Cancer Centre in Guwahati, explained, 'Exposure to blue light late in the evening tricks the brain into thinking it's still daytime. This delays the release of melatonin — a hormone crucial not just for sleep quality but also for regulating cellular health and immune defense.' Studies suggest that melatonin helps suppress tumour growth and when its levels are reduced consistently, it may create a biological environment where cancer is more likely to develop. Epidemiological evidence links chronic circadian disruption, such as in night shift workers, with higher rates of breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. In fact, The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has identified night shift work involving circadian rhythm disruption as probably carcinogenic to humans. Dr Kamalasanan revealed, 'Our circadian rhythm is a master regulator—coordinating DNA repair, hormone release, and cell division. Disturbing this rhythm can trigger inflammation, reduce the effectiveness of cellular repair mechanisms and impair the body's ability to detect and eliminate abnormal cells.' Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Ritika Hinduja, consultant, radiation oncology at PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre in Mumbai's Mahim, shared, 'Poor sleep quality is a concerning public health issue. Circadian rhythm or the biological clock is the 24-hour internal clock in our brain that regulates cycles of alertness and sleepiness by responding to light changes in our environment. This is controlled by the hormone melatonin, produced by pineal gland in the brain.' Dr Ritika Hinduja pointed out, 'Disruptions in the body's 'biological clock', which controls sleep and thousands of other functions, may raise the odds of cancers of the breast, colon, ovaries and prostate. Exposure to light while working overnight shifts for several years may reduce levels of melatonin, encouraging cancer to grow.' Sleep deprivation also affects our immune system indicative of body being in inflammation. Dr Hinduja highlighted, 'Although vital for normal health, several decades of research have firmly implicated inflammation in the development and progression of cancer.' The English longitudinal study of ageing has assessed the relation between sleep quality and risk of cancer. Having studied over 10000 individuals, they concluded that poor sleep quality is positively associated with the long-term risk of developing cancer in an elderly cohort. Dr Hinduja concluded, 'Both medical staff and the general public should pay more attention to improving sleep hygiene. Cancer and sleep are intertwined in more than a single way. They emulate a chicken and egg phenomenon. Often, cancer survivors suffer from sleep problems, caused by psychological stress and recently proven, owing to the cancer and its treatment too.' Dr Kamalasanan suggested, 'Promoting healthy sleep habits — like reducing screen exposure at night, dimming lights after sunset, and following a regular sleep schedule — is not just good for mental clarity or energy; it may be a critical component in lowering cancer risk. Good sleep is not optional. It's one of the body's strongest and most natural, lines of defense.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
