Atrazine, one the most commonly used pesticides in the United States, causes sexual abnormality in frogs, according to scientists from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The New York Times article, "Popular Pesticide Faulted for Frogs' Sexual Abnormalities" by Jennifer Lee, discusses this important issue.

Several studies have found that frogs develop a variety of defects, including multiple testes and multiple ovaries, when exposed to the chemical. The results from the studies have not been consistent, however, and scientists are recommending further research to determine the impact of atrazine on frog populations.

Atrazine, which has been banned in seven European countries, is widely found in U.S. waters particularly after planting season when rain causes the chemical to spread from fields. Farmers commonly use the chemical because it is effective and relatively inexpensive.

Previous laboratory studies have found an association between atrazine and cancer in rats, and a link between atrazine exposure and cancer in humans has been found by some epidemiological studies.

Atrazine raises discussion of chemicals known as endocrine disruptors. Small amounts of such chemicals can interfere with the hormones that control biological activity. Trace amounts of the chemicals have been linked to declining sperm counts, infertility and cancer in humans, and have been associated with genital defects in wildlife.

To read the full article on this significant issue please visit The New York Times Web site. You will need to register with their site (it’s free) to view the entire article.

New York Times June 19, 2003

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

Most people don’t have an immediate negative reaction when they are exposed to a pesticide. They may not enjoy the smell, but it is actually the minority who will notice a physical symptom. Most of us take immediate negative reactions to mean that something is dangerous. This is a protective response that is largely related to our food intake. If we eat something that makes us nauseous we are likely to avoid it in the future. The problem with pesticide exposure is that the majority of the negative reactions occur some time in the future. It seems that the literature is quite clear on the association between pesticides and Parkinson’s and new evidence is now suggesting an association to MS. In addition to neurological illnesses, one of the major hidden dangers of pesticide exposure is to pregnant women. If you know a woman who is pregnant, reminding her of this important fact would be one of the biggest gifts you could give to her unborn child. Related Articles: EPA Will Test Pesticide Hormone Side Effects Next Year Prenatal Pesticide Exposure Can Cause Damage Later in Life Pesticides May Increase Parkinson's Risk Why Pesticides May Increase the Price You Pay For Food Alternatives to Using Pesticides Agricultural Pesticides Linked to Fetal Death