Are pesticides more dangerous than tobacco?

Comparing the dangers of pesticides to those of tobacco is complicated because they harm health and the environment in different ways.

Both pesticides and tobacco can pose serious health risks, but the degree of danger depends on the duration of exposure, the dose, and the type of contaminant. Here’s a rundown of each:

Tobacco smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. It causes serious diseases such as lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and several forms of cancer. Secondhand smoke is also harmful to the health of non-smokers.

Tobacco smoking often leads to chronic diseases and usually has serious, long-term health effects. The damage is cumulative, and even small amounts of smoking significantly increase the risk of disease.

Pesticides vary in toxicity. Some can be acutely toxic at high exposure levels, while others carry more subtle long-term risks such as hormone disruption, nerve damage, and increased risk of cancer. Exposure can occur through inhalation, absorption through the skin, or consumption of contaminated food or water.

Long-term exposure to pesticides, especially for people who work in agriculture or handle these substances extensively, can lead to chronic health problems such as nervous disorders, cancer, or reproductive problems. Some pesticides are more persistent and can accumulate in the environment (for example DDT).

Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/pesticide-residues-in-food

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-05 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025