Yield Effects of Genetically Modified Foods in Developing Countries

http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/299/5608/900

This article by Matin Qaim and David Zilberman supports the use of genetically modified crops in developing countries. The article cites the yields obtained from Bt cotton grow in India as evidence that genetically modified crops can be beneficial. Bt cotton has been modified so that it contains the Cry1Ac gene which gives the plants resistance to bollworms, a major pest in India.
Critics of genetically modified crops claim that their use does not increase yields. The data from gathered from the farms that used Bt cotton indicate that yields did increase dramatically (up to 80% increases). In addition, farmers saved money by using less insecticide on their crops.
This article was published to show how effective modern GM crops can be. We currently have the technology to increase efficiency in farms around the world. The authors wish to prove to readers that GM crops can be very effective if used properly and critics merely show selected data to influence public opinions.
This article focuses on only one example of GM crop implementation so it cannot be reflective of all situations. Additionally, the massive increase in yields are probably due in part to the number of pests present that year. The areas of India where the Bt cotton was introduced are under heavy pressure from insect pests. These situations all contribute to the effectiveness of the cotton. The article does prove that GM crops that are currently available have potential to increase worldwide crop yields, especially in poorer countries where pests take a much higher proportion of the crop. Their use will also create less need for insecticides.
These issues are relevant to health care today in two respects. Increased food supply as a result of the modified crops could prevent death and disease from malnutrition. Chemical insecticides area also a probable cause of some disease and pollution. Decreased use of insecticides would benefit the environment, and by extension, public health.
I found the interesting because it gave an in-depth example of one successful situation. To be truly convince of the effectiveness of GM crops, I would have to see the yield results in many more experiments. This article does have more impact because of its focus. When paired with broader information, the data presented in this article could be convincing enough to spur more support for GM foods and their use in the developing countries of the tropics and subtropics.