Scientific Studies


Biomonitoring Information with 2,4-D

Biomonitoring is the process of measuring chemical concentrations present in the human body. Researchers can use a variety of methods to determine precise micro-levels of a certain substance in the body at a given time, but an analysis of bodily fluids – usually blood or urine samples – is generally the most common and widely used.

Trace amounts of many chemicals related to the use of common products like medication, over-the-counter drugs, makeup, herbicides and many others are constantly present in the human body, and a common misconception is that their simple presence equates to personal health risks. This is not true.

Biomonitoring studies focus on measuring and identifying the significant effects of these chemicals as they relate to various human health conditions. Repeatedly, studies find that a minimal presence of a specific chemical is not necessarily cause for any concern. The individual toxicity of every chemical or substance is related to its specific dose or concentration.

Recently, there has been a great effort to compile biomonitoring data related to 2,4-D exposure. Scientists across North America are studying the levels of 2,4-D found in different populations ranging from the general public to agricultural applicators who use 2,4-D in the field.

The studies below represent the 2,4-D biomonitoring data that has been published to date. A summary and the full text of each article is posted where available.

Other sources of information about Biomonitoring:

 
Copyright 2013 Industry Task Force II on 2,4-D Research Data