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09:53 AM UTC · THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2026 LA ERA · México
May 7, 2026 · Updated 09:53 AM UTC
Health

French families claim pesticide exposure causing birth defects and cancer

Rising rates of cancer and cognitive disorders in French children have prompted families to seek compensation through a government fund established in 2020.

Lucía Paredes

1 min read

French families claim pesticide exposure causing birth defects and cancer
Agricultural crops being treated with pesticides

French families are calling for greater protection against chemical exposure as rising rates of cancer, birth defects, and cognitive disorders affect children across the country, according to a report by France 24.

The use of pesticides has been identified as a major risk to both mothers and their infants, including during pregnancy.

While the French government established a special fund in 2020 to provide compensation for victims of pesticide-related illnesses, many affected families argue that the state is not doing enough to shield the most vulnerable populations.

A growing health crisis

The report from the Down to Earth team highlights the increasing prevalence of serious health issues in the French population.

Families affected by these chemicals have expressed a sense of betrayal, with some stating, "We've been poisoned."

As the health consequences of in utero exposure become more evident, the pressure on authorities to regulate pesticide use and improve the compensation process continues to grow.

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