The International Agency for Research on Cancer has evaluated the carcinogenicity of glyphosate, malathion, diazinon, parathion, and tetrachlorvinphos.

Glyphosate is the highest production-volume herbicide in the world. IARC classified glyphosate as probably carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2A).

The insecticides malathion and diazinon were both classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2A). In Canada, malathion is used in mosquito control, while use of diazinon is restricted to soil drench and ear tag applications.

The insecticides tetrachlorvinphos and parathion were both classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (IARC Group 2B). Tetrachlorvinphos is registered for use in Canada, but parathion is not.

Click here to read IARC Monographs Volume 112.

Click here to learn more about how IARC classifies carcinogens.