Atrazine Found in Pregnant Women's Blood at 31 ng/mL

The herbicide atrazine shows up in pregnant women's blood at levels up to 31.68 ng/mL. Despite being one of the most widely used pesticides in the U.S., we still don't have good ways to track everyday exposure.

What the Review Found

A 2026 review in Int J Environ Res Public Health systematically examined all published studies on atrazine biomonitoring in blood, urine, and sweat. In acute poisoning cases, blood levels averaged 261 ng/mL. In pregnant women, levels reached up to 31.68 ng/mL.

Urine is the standard testing method, but the review found no studies have validated sweat as a biomarker for atrazine. That's a gap, because sweat-based monitoring could be simpler and more accessible for widespread screening.

Why Atrazine Matters

Atrazine is the second most-used herbicide in America, applied heavily on corn, sugarcane, and sorghum. It's been found in drinking water across agricultural states. It's an endocrine disruptor that interferes with hormone signaling. Animal studies have linked it to reproductive problems, birth defects, and cancer.

The EU banned atrazine in 2004 over health concerns. The U.S. still allows it.

Where You're Exposed

Tap water in agricultural areas is the main route. Atrazine also drifts from sprayed fields into nearby communities. It's been detected in rainwater and groundwater far from farms.

How to Reduce Exposure

Filter your water with activated carbon or reverse osmosis. Both remove atrazine effectively. Buy organic produce when possible. Support policies for stricter pesticide regulation. Browse non-toxic home essentials for a cleaner household.

Also see non-toxic kitchen essentials for safer alternatives.

Source: Zielke C, et al. (2026). Int J Environ Res Public Health.