In November, the Canadian Cancer Society, a national community-based organisation of volunteers whose mission is the eradication of cancer and the enhancement of the quality of life of people living with cancer, announced their official position on non-cosmetic pesticides in November.

In a recent statement, the CCS states that when pesticides are needed in non-cosmetic settings, they should be part of a plan to control pests that includes pest prevention, using pesticides in the lowest amounts possible and using safer alternatives.

They state that risks and benefits of the non-cosmetic use of pesticides should be assessed depending on each situation. They have presented these situations as follows:

 Pesticide use in agriculture Encourage the use of farming practices that reduces the use of pesticides to minimise exposure.

 Pesticide residues on vegetables and fruit While there are known health benefits to eating vegetables and fruit, there is not enough evidence about possible harm from pesticide residues on food. The amount of pesticide residue allowed on vegetables and fruit should be as low as possible to reduce exposure. At this time, research has not shown a difference in the health benefits between organically grown vegetables and fruit and those grown using other farming methods that may include pesticides. The CCS is reviewing research on pesticide residues on food and with the intention to update their position in due course.

 Pressure-treated lumber CCS supports a ban on the use of chromium copper arsenate (CCA) – which contains known cancer-causing substances – to pressure-treat lumber.

 Pesticide use to control West Nile virus CCS believes that chemical spraying against mosquitoes should be used only as a last resort to control West Nile virus.

The Canadian Cancer Society advises reducing, and even eliminating, exposure to pesticides where possible. They also have a position on Cosmetic use of pesticides (i.e. to make lawns, gardens and other green spaces look better by controlling unwanted weeds and plants), which acknowledges their danger to health and calls for an outright ban on usage.

 More information about CCS and pesticides:

Community right to know CCs support a community’s right to know when pesticides are being used in their area so they can make informed decisions about protecting their health.

Product labelling The CCS calls for manufacturers to identify all ingredients in consumer products, including pesticides. When there are cancer-causing ingredients in pesticides, they should be identified by a hazard symbol, as well as clear plain language information about the ingredient. Ingredients include active ingredients, non-active ingredients (formulants) and possible contaminants. This information should be easy for the buyer or user to see.

Research Read more about CCS’s position on pesticides: English or French