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Pesticides and mortality from hormone-dependent cancers
J P Janssens1, E Van Hecke, H Geys
1European Cancer Prevention Organization, Limburgs Universitair Centrum, Universitaire Campus - Building C, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium. janssens.ecp@skynet.be
Summary
This study found no direct link between overall pesticide use and breast or prostate cancer mortality in Belgium. However, increased breast cancer mortality was observed in potato-growing regions, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are suspected causes of hormone-dependent cancers.
- Concerns exist regarding the long-term toxicity of pesticides, particularly their potential hormonal activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between pesticide exposure, crop data, and mortality rates of breast and prostate cancer in Belgian municipalities.
- To assess the impact of environmental and industrial factors as potential confounders.
Main Methods:
- Spatial statistical analysis of mortality data (1985-1994) and pesticide/crop data (1998) for 589 Belgian municipalities.
- Inclusion of confounder data: population density, urbanization, industrial activity, and incinerator presence.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in crop types and pesticide exposure across municipalities, with highest exposure in fruit-producing areas.
- No consistent correlation found between general pesticide use, crop types, and breast/prostate cancer mortality, except for defoliant use and potato cultivation.
- Increased breast cancer mortality, and to a lesser extent prostate cancer mortality, noted in traditional potato-growing areas.
Conclusions:
- The study does not support a relationship between total or class-related pesticide use and breast/prostate cancer mortality.
- Further research is recommended to explore the observed increased cancer mortality in potato-growing regions.