A new study has found an alarming increase in levels of toxic herbicides found in the urine of pregnant women in Indiana, the Guardian reports.
The herbicide dicamba was detected in 70% of pregnant women tested from 2020 to 2022, a dramatic increase compared to just 28% in a previous study from 2010 to 2012.
what’s happening?
The study, conducted by the Indiana University School of Medicine, not only found dicamba in more women, but also found that its concentrations increased more than fourfold.
Additionally, 100% of the women tested had detectable levels of 2,4-D, another common herbicide, although the increase in concentrations was less pronounced than for dicamba.
These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence suggesting widespread human exposure to pesticides, particularly in the Midwest. The increase in the presence of these herbicides coincides with the introduction of genetically modified crops engineered to withstand dicamba and her 2,4-D spraying.
Why are these concentrations a concern?
The health effects are not yet fully understood, but experts have expressed concern about the potential effects on pregnant women and developing fetuses.
Studies have linked dicamba to increased cancer risk, while animal studies suggest 2,4-D exposure during pregnancy may affect fetal growth and behavior .
Dr. Paul Winchester, a clinical professor of pediatrics at Indiana University, warned that “fetal DNA is shaped by these exposures.” “What we’re seeing with other chemicals that have been studied for longer periods of time is that this is not a benign exposure.”
Protecting the health of their babies is a top priority for expectant mothers, and these findings highlight the importance of minimizing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
What can you do to protect your baby?
Although the EPA still allows the recently banned dicamba herbicide to be used during this growing season, there are active steps pregnant women can take to reduce exposure.
• Choose organic produce whenever possible, especially for items that tend to have high levels of pesticide residue, such as strawberries, spinach, and kale.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
• To minimize tracking of outdoor herbicides, remove your shoes before entering your home.
• Avoid spending time near agricultural fields that may have been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides.
Together, let’s take small but meaningful steps towards a safer and healthier world for generations to come.
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