Groups step up action on soya pesticides in Argentina

摘要

In the Ituzaingo Anexo neighbourhood of the city of Cordoba, reports indicate that 200 of the 5,000 residents suffer from some form of cancer, most notably breast, stomach, throat cancer and leukaemia. Many are children or young people, with more than 13 cases of leukaemia. One of the most heart-rending cases is that of the Olariaga family which has been exposed to fumigation episodes for many years. Mrs Olariaga, 64 years of age, has two tumours in her head and has lost some motor coordination. 26 year-old Deborah has three tumours in her head and is still awaiting an operation. Ezekiel, 25, has 22 separate tumours spread over his head and stomach. He suffers deafness as a result and is waiting for medical treatment. The 'Mothers of Ituzaingo' group have been campaigning since 2001. They say that the health problems are directly related to soya fumigations which have destroyed the ability of local families to earn a living. The local health authorities are also involved and have now agreed to carry out environmental health studies and a public health survey.