Cosmetic Pesticides and other Cancer-Causing Substances

Every day, British Columbians are exposed to chemicals in the environment. Research has shown that some of these chemicals are associated with cancer. There is growing concern about the cosmetic use of pesticides on lawns and gardens, and exposure to other potential cancer-causing substances in the environment, at home and in workplaces. It is critical to have enough information and clear warnings of potential cancer-causing ingredients in products. With Right to Know (product labelling) legislation people can make informed decisions about their health and the products they buy and use, especially around children.

What can you do now?

Make your voice heard. Join the Canadian Cancer Society in calling on all political parties to make a commitment to:

Why is this important?  

There is growing evidence linking pesticide exposure with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, adult and childhood leukemia, brain, kidney, pancreatic, prostate, and some lung cancers. The cosmetic (non-essential) use of pesticides on lawns and gardens has no health benefit but has the potential to harm our health and the environment. There are sustainable, non-toxic alternatives to cosmetic pesticides. 

People have the right to know if they're being exposed to products that contain cancer-causing substances at the point of sale and use. Right to Know legislation would require consumer products to be labeled if they contain a carcinogen, both with a listing of the substance and a clearly recognizable symbol. Knowing this information will help people make informed decisions to protect thier own health and the health of their children.

Help spread the word: Post links to this website, on other sites such as Facebook. Use any of the following links to share this page on those other websites: