2016
Volume 16, Number 2, pp. 105-117
Converging pattern of glyphosate toxicity from farm to clinic to laboratory studies
E. Sirinathsinghji
The Institute of Science in Society, 29 Tytherton Road, London N19 4PZ, UK
Glyphosate-based herbicides, including Roundup, are the most widely used herbicides in the world. Their rising use over the last 20 years is in large part due to the introduction of genetically modified crops engineered to tolerate these herbicides. They are also increasingly used as a preharvest desiccant of grain crops. Residues are now being regularly detected in our environment, foods and people. An accumulating body of evidence suggests glyphosate exerts wide-ranging human toxicity with carcinogenic, teratogenic, nephrotoxic and neurotoxic effects. Our review reveals the converging pattern of toxicity that is being seen across laboratory studies, doctor’s clinics and livestock farms. In light of such evidence, regulatory agencies are urged to act in accordance with the precautionary principle, and the global phasing out of glyphosate is recommended.
Keywords: glyphosate, herbicides, human toxicity, precautionary principle, risk assessment