Exposure to multiple pesticides significantly increases the risk of childhood cancers compared to exposure to just one pesticide, according to groundbreaking research. This finding raises concerns that children may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of these substances than previously thought.

The study’s authors examined the connection between exposure to multiple widely used pesticides and the most common childhood cancers, a first-of-its-kind investigation. Typically, research evaluates the toxicity of pesticides individually, as if exposures occur in isolation. However, people are often exposed to multiple pesticides through water, produce, meat, fish, and processed foods. Agricultural communities are particularly at risk due to exposure in water, air, dust, and the home.

In Nebraska, where the study was conducted, it was found that a 10% mixture of pesticides increased brain cancer rates by 36%, leukemia rates by 23%, and overall pediatric cancer rates by 30%. These cancers are among the most common in the state and may explain their prevalence.

Jabeen Taiba, a lead author from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, emphasized that individuals are not just exposed to one chemical, but rather a complex mixture. Studying individual chemicals alone does not accurately capture the full range of exposures and provides limited information.

The research analyzed cancer data from 2,500 pediatric cases spanning 22 years in Nebraska, a region known for its high use of multiple pesticides. Out of the 32 pesticides examined, the most potent mixtures were found among herbicides such as dicamba, glyphosate, and paraquat. These products have faced intense scrutiny due to their toxicity and are banned in many countries, but regulators in the United States have been resistant to calls for bans. Pesticides are particularly dangerous for children due to their smaller developmental bodies, making them more at risk at lower exposure levels.

While farm workers and individuals living in agricultural communities are at the highest risk, children’s exposure to pesticides in food presents a hidden danger. Organic foods, when possible, are recommended by Taiba as a means of reducing exposure. Additionally, individuals can research pesticide levels in their community’s water sources and consider installling water filtration systems, with reverse osmosis and granular activated carbon systems being considered the most effective.

In agricultural communities, it is advised that adults working around pesticides leave their work clothes and shoes outdoors, as previous research has shown that bringing pesticides into the home is a significant exposure source for children.

Overall, while regulatory changes are needed to address the toxicity of exposure to multiple substances, individuals can take steps to protect themselves and their children against pesticide exposure.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/05/pesticides-childhood-cancer-study