The Maine Cancer Association is increasing awareness of breast cancer while pesticides associated with increased risk of cancer are applied on our lawns. In a 2004 study samples of Cape Cod homes with pesticide use had an increased incidence of breast, colorectal, lung and prostate cancer. A National Cancer Institute report states that children are six times more likely to develop leukemia when lawn pesticides are applied.

I commend the work being done by Maine YardScaping and Safelawns.Org to minimize the use of pesticides and try to change our “perfect lawn” culture.

I am working with a group, Citizens for a Green Yarmouth, to promote natural alternatives to lawn care and raise awareness about the question, “dandelions or cancer?”

Dr. Leora Rabin
Yarmouth