New Study Links Glyphosate to Early-Life Leukemia, Renews Concern Over “Safe” Exposure Levels

A new long-term animal study is reigniting debate over the safety of glyphosate, the world’s most widely used weed killer, after researchers found a significantly increased risk of cancer—including early-life leukemia—even at levels currently deemed safe by regulators. 

The study, published this month in Environmental Health, tracked more than 1,000 rats over two years and found that glyphosate and its commercial herbicide formulations triggered a higher incidence of benign and malignant tumors. Notably, the researchers observed early-life leukemia in rats exposed prenatally—raising fresh concerns about the compound’s effects on developing organisms. 

“This study provides independent scientific evidence that both glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides can contribute to carcinogenic outcomes,” said Dr. Daniele Mandrioli, director of the Cesare Maltoni Cancer Research Center at the Ramazzini Institute in Italy and the study’s principal investigator. 

 

Exposure at Common Doses Still Carcinogenic 

The rats were exposed to glyphosate via drinking water at doses of 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/kg body weight per day—a range that includes the EU’s acceptable daily intake (0.5 mg/kg) and its “no-observed-adverse-effect level” (NOAEL) at 50 mg/kg. Tumors appeared in all three exposure groups, and most notably, in tissues not commonly associated with spontaneous cancer in rats. 

“The fact that glyphosate alone was capable of inducing malignant tumors—and that co-formulants in commercial herbicide products may increase its toxicity—raises serious concerns,” the authors wrote. The researchers also emphasized that many of the tumors occurred early in life, a factor rarely seen in long-term carcinogenicity studies. 

A Pattern of Toxicity 

The findings contribute to a growing body of literature linking glyphosate exposure to human health concerns. In 2015, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen.” Since then, studies have associated the chemical with neurotoxicity, liver dysfunction, reproductive disruption, and microbiome imbalance—sometimes at doses far below regulatory thresholds. 

In 2023, a review of over 15 years of glyphosate studies confirmed consistent associations with cancers, endocrine system effects, metabolic disorders, and more. 

These data also carry legal implications: Bayer, which acquired Monsanto and its Roundup brand in 2018, is currently facing tens of thousands of lawsuits in the U.S. from individuals alleging glyphosate exposure caused their non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The company has paid billions in settlements and is reportedly considering a shutdown of its U.S. glyphosate operations. 

Vulnerability in Early Development 

One of the most concerning aspects of the new study is its emphasis on prenatal and early-life vulnerability. The researchers documented leukemia-related deaths in young rats whose exposure began in utero—echoing long-standing public health warnings about fetal sensitivity to chemical exposures. 

Medical Response: Detoxification and Prevention Strategies 

As scientific understanding of environmental carcinogens grows, some clinicians are advocating for proactive detoxification protocols aimed at reducing the long-term burden of glyphosate and similar toxins in the human body. 

At MDLifespan, a public benefit longevity clinic focused on environmental medicine, medical director Dr. Paul Savage emphasizes the link between toxic load and cancer vulnerability. 

“Glyphosate, like other persistent environmental chemicals, contributes to inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage,” Dr. Savage said. “These factors collectively increase the risk of abnormal cell growth and immune dysregulation—conditions that set the stage for cancer.” 

MDLifespan’s MDL Cancer PlasmaXchange Protocol uses Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) to filter harmful compounds from the bloodstream. According to data collected by the clinic, the protocol leads to: 

• 100% reduction of heavy metals 

• 90% reduction of microplastics 

• 80% reduction in chronic inflammation 

• Strengthening of immune resilience by up to 80% 

The protocol also includes targeted nutrient support and pre/post testing for toxins, inflammatory markers, and early disease risk indicators. 

Looking Ahead 

The authors of the glyphosate study recommend reassessment of current regulatory limits and call for additional transparency in evaluating real-world herbicide formulations, not just isolated active ingredients. 

Meanwhile, clinicians and public health experts are urging the public to take protective steps—such as reducing glyphosate-contaminated food intake, advocating for safer public landscaping practices, and considering detox strategies that address cumulative toxic burden. 

“Waiting for policy change can take years,” Dr. Savage said. “But the body has its own healing systems—if we reduce the interference.”