Review of the Literature: Impact of GMOs on Health Outcomes for African Americans

Background: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic materials have been altered using genetic engineering techniques. GMOs have been beneficial by allowing easier access, production, and decreased food prices. However, there is an adverse impact on population health due to their decreased nutritional value. Potential adverse effects are bodily toxicity, reproductive and digestive system effects, food allergies, antibiotic resistance, diabetes, obesity, sterility, and cancer. 

Methods:A meta-analysis approach was employed using electronic databases, current and past journals, and bibliographies of relevant articles. Twenty-seven sources were identified from 2003-2015. Keywords used were GMO testing/methods, GMO health risks, and GMO allergy effects.

Results: GMOs have been found to cause adverse health problems (e.g., precancerous cells, bleeding stomachs, hepatomegaly, abnormal renal and blood cells, and premature death) in animals fed exclusive GMO diets. Human blood samples have revealed the presence of GMO pesticides. Human health effects include allergic-type immune responses when inhaling corn pollen laden with Bacillus thuringiensis spores, which could lead to death. GMOs may cause plants to produce their protective toxins at higher levels that become harmful to humans. GMOs genes in plants can bind to other plant genes and make minerals unavailable to the human body, which may limit the prevention of heart diseases, immune response, and cancers.

Conclusion: African Americans may suffer disproportionately from aforementioned conditions and therefore need to be aware and educated about GMOs’ harmful health impact to reduce disparities.