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Eugene, OR – A new study by University of Oregon economists suggests a link between increased exposure to glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, and adverse infant health outcomes in U.S. agricultural counties.
The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that a significant rise in glyphosate use following the introduction of genetically modified crops correlated with lower birthweights and shorter gestation periods.
The study analyzed birth records in rural counties from 1990 to 2013, comparing counties highly suitable for genetically modified crops to those less suitable. While birth outcomes remained similar before the widespread adoption of GM crops, a decline in infant health was observed after 1996 in counties with higher glyphosate use.
The researchers controlled for various factors that could influence birth outcomes, concluding that glyphosate exposure likely contributed to these adverse effects. The study highlights that the impact was most pronounced among infants with the lowest expected birthweight.
These findings challenge the current regulatory stance on glyphosate safety and raise concerns about the potential health implications of widespread herbicide use. The researchers advocate for increased monitoring of glyphosate use and exposure, as well as a reevaluation of current regulatory policies.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Note: This article is a simplified version of the research findings. For a comprehensive understanding, refer to the original study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
