This article by Alex Bartle examines the underlying pathology of restless legs syndrome, while acknowledging many facets remain unknown. Up to one in 10 people are affected by RLS to some degree, but it is often undiagnosed. GPs are in an ideal position to identify and treat this condition, which may be idiopathic or due to secondary conditions that may be correctable
Are we lost in the weeds when it comes to glyphosate use in New Zealand?
+Practice
In print
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Are we lost in the weeds when it comes to glyphosate use in New Zealand?
Wednesday 24 November 2021, 12:25 AM
![Weeds Letterbox [David Tip on Unsplash]](/sites/default/files/styles/cropped_image_16_7_/public/2021-11/Weeds_Letterbox_CR_David_Tip_Unsplash.jpg?itok=4XXardVk)
Many people turn to glyphosate to tackle weeds, but there is ongoing debate about its effects on human health [Image: David Tip on Unsplash]
Occupational health expert David McBride discusses the herbicide glyphosate. It is widely used on farms and in gardens, streets and parks across New Zealand, but is it safe?
Key points, The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as probably carcinogenic to humans, while the Environmental Protection Authority, Pract Green w Pale Yellow
References
- Davoren MJ, Schiestl RH. Glyphosate-based herbicides and cancer risk: a post-IARC decision review of potential mechanisms, policy and avenues of research. Carcinogenesis 2018;39(10):1207–15.
- Zhang L, Rana I, Shaffer RM, et al. Exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides and risk for non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A meta-analysis and supporting evidence. Mutat Res Rev Mutat Res 2019;781:186–206.
- Andreotti G, Koutros S, Hofmann JN, et al. Glyphosate use and cancer incidence in the agricultural health study. J Natl Cancer Inst 2018;110(5):509–16.
- Douwes J, ‘t Mannetje A, McLean D, et al. Carcinogenicity of glyphosate: why is New Zealand's EPA lost in the weeds? N Z Med J 2018;131(1472):82–89.