Pesticide exposure tied to rise in early-onset colorectal cancer, study suggests

Spanish researchers report an association between exposure to picloram, a long-used weed killer, and higher rates of early-onset colorectal cancer, with tumors from higher-exposure patients showing fewer APC gene mutations and suggesting a potentially different cancer pathway. The study is observational and cannot prove causation, but findings raise questions about regulatory review if confirmed. Regions with greater picloram use also showed more cases, and the broader context notes the rising burden of colorectal cancer and a recommended screening start at age 45.