Review Article: Chlorothalonil and Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

Chlorothalonil, a broad-spectrum fungicide, has been extensively used in agriculture for over five decades. It plays a vital role in preventing fungal diseases in various crops, contributing significantly to increased agricultural productivity. However, concerns about the safety of chlorothalonil have arisen, particularly regarding its potential to cause cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified chlorothalonil as a possible human carcinogen (Group 2B), which has led to intensified scrutiny of its long-term effects on human health. This review aims to critically evaluate the existing body of evidence on chlorothalonil’s potential carcinogenicity, examining toxicological data, mechanisms of action, and epidemiological studies, while also discussing regulatory actions and future research directions.