The International Agency for Research on Cancer has evaluated the carcinogenicity of 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), lindane, DDT (1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane).

2,4-D is a herbicide currently used in agricultural, urban, and residential weed control. IARC classified 2,4-D as possibly carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2B).

Lindane is an insecticide that has been used in agriculture and to treat lice and scabies. It is now banned in many countries. Lindane was classified as carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 1).

DDT is an insecticide previously used in agriculture and mosquito control. It is persistent in the environment, so exposure still occurs despite being banned. DDT was classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2A).

Click here to read IARC Monographs Volume 113.

Click here to learn more about how IARC classifies carcinogens.