The Impact of Agricultural Pesticides on Cancer Incidence in Midwest, United States

This analysis examines the relationship between pesticide usage and cancer incidence rates in the Midwest United States using a Bayesian regression model. Pesticide usage data from 1992-2002 and cancer incidence rates from 2017-2022 were analyzed alongside demographic factors such as smoking, binge drinking, and obesity. After selecting the best-fitting distribution, we evaluated the effects of pesticide exposure on cancer rates. The results showed no confident effects from Glyphosate. Atrazine usage results seem to be unreliable, thus no clear conclusion can be made. However, we found Ethalfluralin, 2,4-D, Malathion, and MCPA use was associated with higher overall rates. These findings highlight the need for further research into the potential health risks of pesticide exposure and its role in cancer development.