22 pesticides are believed to be involved

This research highlights the importance of considering environmental exposure to pesticides to explain prostate cancer morbidity based on geographic area and calls for future studies to clarify these risks.

A significant time lapse between exposure and the appearance of cancer

According to a new study by a team of researchers from Stanford University published on November 4, 2024 in the journal Cancer22 pesticides are associated with an increase in the incidence of prostate cancer. For this analysis, 295 pesticides were evaluated at the U.S. county level, with a time lag of 10 to 18 years between exposure and disease onset, reflecting the slow growth of most prostate cancers. The periods 1997-2001 and 2002-2006 were examined for pesticide use, while cancer outcomes were noted between 2011-2015 and 2016-2020.

Among the 22 pesticides linked to cancer incidence, some, such as the herbicide 2,4-D, are known for their widespread use in corn, soybean and citrus growing. This herbicide has been used since the 1940s for various agricultural uses and regulation of plant growth. Three other herbicides — trifluralin, cloransulam-methyl and diflufenzopyr — as well as an insecticide, thiamethoxam, have also been linked to increased mortality from prostate cancer. However, among them, only trifluralin is considered by the EPA to be “possibly carcinogenic”.

Prostate cancer: an essential study for understanding risk factors

Also according to this study, rural areas where agriculture is intensive have increased risks of prostate cancer, illustrating the impact of prolonged exposure to pesticides. Its lead author, Simon John Christoph Soerensen, recalls the importance of understanding these exposures to explain geographic disparities in incidence and mortality. « By delving deeper into these results, we can move forward in detecting risk factors and reduce the number of men affected. “, he said.

However, some experts point out that the study remains observational in nature. Oliver Jones, a chemist at RMIT University, warns that “ association does not mean causation » and that additional research is essential to establish solid conclusions. Still according to Oliver Jones, the adage “ the dose makes the poison » reminds the importance of considering the levels and duration of exposure.

These results, while calling for caution, reinforce concerns related to the safety of agricultural workers and surrounding communities, highlighting the importance of protective policies and increased regulation in pesticide use.