Why Is Glyphosate Missing from the MAHA Children's Health Report?

The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission has released its second report, "Make Our Children Healthy Again," outlining a public health strategy aimed at improving nutrition and reducing harmful substances in food. Despite highlighting the risks of glyphosate, a widely used pesticide, in its earlier report, the commission has not proposed measures to limit its use, raising concerns among public health advocates.

Last updated: 23 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the MAHA Commission's Report

• The MAHA Commission's second report neglects to call for reduced glyphosate use despite acknowledging its risks.
• Glyphosate is present in over 80% of Americans' bodies, raising health concerns.
• Recent studies link glyphosate to serious health issues, including cancer.
• The EPA continues to reassess glyphosate's safety, with ongoing legal actions against its manufacturer.
• The report promotes regenerative agriculture but lacks urgent action on pesticide regulation.

The Context of Glyphosate in American Agriculture

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that has become a critical tool in modern agriculture. Its widespread use in the United States has resulted in over 300 million pounds being applied annually across various crops. This chemical has been a staple in the agricultural sector since its introduction in the 1970s, primarily due to its effectiveness in controlling weeds. However, its impact on human health and the environment has sparked significant controversy and debate.

Understanding Glyphosate and Its Risks

Despite being hailed as safe by pesticide manufacturers, numerous studies have linked glyphosate to various health risks, particularly cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans" in 2015, a warning that has not led to substantial regulatory changes over the years.

Exposure Levels and Health Implications

Reports indicate that over 80% of Americans aged six and older have been exposed to glyphosate, whether through dietary intake, skin contact, or inhalation. This high exposure rate raises significant questions about the long-term health implications for the population. The potential health risks associated with glyphosate exposure include:

• Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Other cancers
• Potential endocrine disruption

The MAHA Commission's Initial Reports

The MAHA Commission's first report, released in May, took a bold stance by acknowledging the potential dangers of glyphosate and other pesticides. This initial recognition led many to anticipate that the second report would propose concrete measures to mitigate these risks. However, the latest report has left many advocates feeling disillusioned.

What the Second Report Offers

In its second report, the MAHA Commission emphasises collaboration with the agricultural sector and plans for research funding focused on pesticide application methods rather than reducing overall pesticide use. While this may lead to improved practices in the long run, it does little to address the immediate health concerns associated with glyphosate exposure.

Public Education and Awareness Initiatives

The report includes provisions for public education regarding pesticide use, which is a positive step. However, the stated focus on building awareness of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) review procedures may not sufficiently empower the public with knowledge about the actual risks of pesticide exposure. Effective public education should prioritise transparency about the health risks associated with glyphosate rather than solely promoting regulatory confidence.

The Role of Regenerative Agriculture

One encouraging aspect of the MAHA Commission's strategy is its commitment to promoting regenerative agriculture and organic farming practices. These methods aim to improve soil health and reduce dependency on chemical pesticides, which could ultimately lead to lower glyphosate exposure. However, transitioning to these practices takes time and is not a quick fix for public health concerns related to current pesticide use.

The EPA's Slow Response

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has historically defended glyphosate, claiming it poses no significant risk when used according to guidelines. Nevertheless, ongoing reassessments are essential, especially following legal challenges that question the safety of glyphosate. As of now, the EPA's slow response to mounting evidence continues to frustrate public health advocates.

Legal Challenges and Public Sentiment

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding glyphosate's safety, thousands of Americans have pursued legal action against Bayer, the manufacturer of the popular glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup. With juries increasingly siding with plaintiffs who claim glyphosate exposure has led to serious health issues, Bayer has already paid over £10 billion in settlements. This situation underscores the growing public concern regarding glyphosate and its potential health implications.

The Need for Urgent Action

Despite the MAHA Commission's initial recognition of glyphosate's risks, the lack of decisive action in its second report is disheartening. Public health advocates argue that the EPA must take the initiative to regulate glyphosate and protect citizens from its potential dangers. As highlighted in the first report, the call for the United States to act decisively has never been more crucial.

Conclusion: A Call for Stronger Regulation

As the MAHA Commission and the EPA continue to navigate the complex landscape of public health and agricultural practices, it is imperative that they prioritise the safety and health of the American population. The evidence surrounding glyphosate's dangers is substantial, and the public deserves clear and effective policies that mitigate these risks. As we move forward, the question remains: will the authorities act to protect the health of Americans, or will they continue to prioritise industry interests?

FAQs

What is glyphosate?

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide effective in controlling weeds, often found in products like Roundup. It has raised health concerns due to its potential carcinogenic effects.

How does glyphosate affect human health?

Research links glyphosate exposure to various health issues, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and other cancers, as well as potential endocrine disruption.

What are the MAHA Commission's recommendations regarding pesticides?

The MAHA Commission's recent report lacks specific recommendations to reduce glyphosate use, focusing instead on collaboration with agricultural industries and public education about pesticide safety.

What has the EPA said about glyphosate safety?

The EPA maintains that glyphosate is safe when used as directed, but it is currently reassessing its health effects amid legal challenges and public scrutiny.

What actions have been taken against Bayer regarding glyphosate?

Bayer has faced thousands of lawsuits from individuals claiming their health issues are linked to glyphosate exposure, resulting in over £10 billion in settlements to date.