The rise in pediatric cancer-related deaths links to the increase in soyabean farming in Brazil’s Amazon and Cerrado regions, as highlighted in a recent study. This surge in soy production over the past twenty years correlates with the substantial use of pesticides, revealing an alarming connection between the agricultural and health sectors.
Correlation Between Soy Production and Pediatric Cancer Deaths
The recent study spearheaded by environmental experts divulged a statistically significant association between the escalation in soy/soyabean production and deaths from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) in children between 2008 and 2019. The research bore out that the expansion of soy farming in these regions coincided with an upsurge in pesticide usage.
Pesticide Exposure through Water Supply
Exploring the primary sources of exposure, the study suggested that water supply penetration served as the likely conduit for pesticide contact. The data emphasized that a 10% increase in the municipal area dedicated to soy farming escalated the probability of a child under five dying from ALL by 1.3% and by 1.6% for children under ten. Thus, suggesting the subtle yet profound effects of agricultural practices on public health.
Policy Recommendations
In light of these findings, the research made noteworthy policy recommendations. The study underscored a robust and persistent association between the expansion of high-intensity agriculture in these regions and adverse human health outcomes. However, it also suggested that access to high-quality healthcare systems could potentially mitigate these connections, particularly for treatable conditions like ALL.
About Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)
ALL, or acute lymphocytic leukemia, is a specific kind of cancer that impacts the blood and bone marrow. This disease is characterized by the rapid and uncontrollable growth of immature white blood cells, known as lymphoblasts. These abnormal cells outpace the regular white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, causing various health problems. Though predominantly diagnosed in children, adults are not immune to this disease. Providing timely and high-quality care can effectively treat ALL.
The Significance of Soyabean Crop
Soyabean, a Kharif crop in India, scientifically known as Glycine max, holds the status of being one of the world’s essential seed legumes. The crop contributes largely to the global edible oil market, accounting for about 25% of its total volume. Furthermore, it provides roughly two-thirds of the worldwide protein concentrate used in livestock feeding, creating a valuable ingredient in formulated feeds for poultry and fish. Predominantly cultivated as a rainfed crop in Vertisols and associated soils, it requires an average crop season rainfall of 900mm.
Major Soyabean Producing States in India
India acknowledges the crop’s significance, with states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka as the major producers of soyabean. These states have become central to supporting both the domestic and international demands for this versatile crop. However, the necessary surge in production should be balanced by proper guidance on pesticide usage, considering its potential health implications as evidenced in Brazil’s Amazon and Cerrado regions.