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Pesticides + children = doubled risk of brain cancer. The equation is right there in black and white, thanks to new research published in Environmental Health Perspectives. Children who live in homes where lawn pesticides are used are twice as likely to develop brain cancer than children with pesticide-free yards.

Let's be clear: There's nothing ambiguous about this report, which adds to mounting evidence that graphically demonstrates that humans and pesticides just don't mix. The nonprofit Environmental Health News summarizes:

Herbicide use appeared to cause a particularly elevated risk for a certain type of cancer. ... It is well established that many pesticides cause cancer in animals. This study highlights a new and compelling reason to avoid or limit pesticide use and take necessary precautions during exposure. It also adds to a growing body of research that finds that pesticide exposure -- especially with farm life and pesticide use -- might be contributing significantly to this deadly disease.

Brain cancer is the second most common cancer in children, yet why it develops is not clear. Genetics plays a role in some cases, but researchers believe those not due to associated genes are related to environmental factors and exposures.

The authors explain that "parental exposures may act before the child’s conception, during gestation, or after birth to increase the risk of cancer." Exposures at each time period may trigger different changes that lead to cancers, such as genetic mutations or changes in gene expression or hormone and immune function.

The research showed significantly lower childhood brain cancer risks among kids whose parents washed up immediately after applying pesticides or wore protective clothing.

With studies like this continuing to roll in, there really is no reason for uncertainty or hesitation. Pesticides kill—and not just bugs. Get rid of the lawn chemicals today.