Go Fresh and Healthy!

26 August 2011

"Are pesticides related to cancer?"


Ignoring the pesticide issue seems to be an unspoken reality in our society, even more on our African continent. The unpleasant notion that our foods are polluted with cancer causing chemicals seems to darken our rose-tinted glassed further.

We base our wisdoms on the theories that are "advertised" to us. For example, we can lower the risk of cancer by decreasing our fat intake by 30%. Let's look at the facts:

1. "Israel breast cancer rates dropped sharply in recent years despite an increase in dietary fat; Israeli pesticide exposure continues to decline". 1
2. "American breast cancer rates climbed sharply in recent years, despite a drop in dietary fat; American pesticide exposures continue to worsen." 2

In order to reduce cancer risks, consumers need to reduce the level of pesticide intake. This too needs assistance on a national level with action reforms regarding:

1. Pesticide laws
2. Risk assessments
3. Cancer programs
4. Farm subsidy programs
5. National media coverage
6. Campaign finance laws

Many problems face producers (meat and produce farmers). The evidence that has been researched for many years has revealed the truth of which deception can no longer hide behind. However when looking at the costs of changing set ways, the time and cost consumption is too great.

Will costs always influence our decisions as price will always be "too expensive".
The question we need to ask ourselves is "Do I place a price tag on my own health?"

Sources

1. Lee Hitchcox, D.C, Strategies for staying alive; Long Life Now, p. 18 "Manifesto for change"
2. Ibid.