The scientific data are sufficiently suggestive of a carcinogenic effect, and demonstrate a weak teratogenic effect, that 2,4-D use should be restricted to areas in which human exposure can be kept to the minimum. Contamination of open water must be monitored and prevented. Broadcast methods of application that could directly expose the general population should be strongly discouraged. Greater consideration must be given to alternative methods for removing unwanted plants. Products containing 2,4-D should be labeled to warn users of the herbicide's potential for causing neurotoxicity and how to protect against it.
Present labels are inadequate.
Educational information should be provided for anyone who works with the substance. Home gardeners using products containing 2,4-D should exercise care to avoid skin exposure to themselves or others. Let us begin our comparison of the two reports with the points upon which they agree. Both agree that 2,4-D is of low acute toxicity. Both agree that 2,4-D is a weak teratogen and that very high dose levels are needed to demonstrate teratogenic effects in experimental animals.