The effects of exposure to herbicide defoliant chemicals on animals and humans. Exposure to defoliants, especially Agent Orange, has been linked to chemical acne, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin disease, and soft-tissue sarcoma.
Defoliants refer to plant poisons that induce the shedding of leaves and foliage. These substances are toxic if ingested. Sodium chlorate, potassium chlorate, phenoxy herbicides, and paraquat are among the commonly employed defoliant poisons.