WHO Classifies Roundup As 'Probable Carcinogen'

The World Health Organization (WHO) has just released information that an active ingredient in Roundup, otherwise known as one of the world's most popular weed killers that's used in the United States, has been declared a "probable carcinogen."

The International Agency on Research on Cancer, an arm of the WHO, released a report today reviewing the cancer risk associated with five pesticides, including glyphosate, according to the Associated Press. 

As it stands, the French agency ranks cancer-causing agents based on four levels: known carcinogens, probably or possible ones, not classifiable or probably not carinogenic.

The report suggests that glyphosate may increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in those who are exposed to the chemical via their occupation, classifying Roundup by IARC as "probably carcinogenic to humans." 

"This category is used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals," IARC said.

However, time may change the classification with future in-depth information.

 "It remains the responsibility of individual governments and other international organizations to recommend regulations, legislation or public health intervention," the agency said in a statement.