EPA issues ban on pesticide; says DCPA can cause serious risks to unborn babies

The Environmental Protection Agency issued a ban on a weedkiller, saying it poses a threat to the health of farmworkers, pregnant women, and unborn babies.

The pesticide, known as DCPA or Dacthal, is used in the farming industry to control plants, vegetables and fruits, most commonly on household staples broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions.

The weedkiller could affect fetal thyroid hormone levels, the agency said in its Tuesday statement, which can lead to a low birth weight, impaired brain development, and other complications for babies.