Agricultural pesticides will be under the microscope at a conference to be hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society Nov. 12 and 13 in Toronto.
“Exploring the Connection — A State of the Science Conference on Pesticides and Cancer” will feature speakers from around the world who have expertise in assessing pesticide exposure and cancer risk in agricultural workers, as well as and non-occupational exposure by adults and children.
Speakers will discuss the rationale for using pesticides, the limitations of environmental exposure research and alternatives to using pesticides in agriculture.
“This conference will be an important first step in setting the agenda for future research and action in this area,” said Heather Logan, director of cancer control policy for the Canadian Cancer Society in a release Wednesday. The society is on the record as opposing the cosmetic use of pesticides.
Participants are expected to include the International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization and U.S. National Cancer Institute.
