You have your favorite household products, which are typically safe. However, we are learning more about some chemicals that may be linked to breast cancer. Some of them are still used in household products.
Let’s take a deeper look and consider ways to limit your exposure.
Household products and links to breast cancer
Science has made tremendous progress in diagnosing and treating breast cancer in recent years. The death rates related to breast cancer have declined steadily for many decades due to prevention, earlier screening, and better treatment.
However, breast cancer is still the most common cancer in women after skin cancer. The risk factors are primarily hormonal, like starting menstruation early or going through menopause late (after 55) or having a family risk of the disease. Some factors can reduce the risk including exercise, earlier pregnancy, and longer breastfeeding.
Researchers are investigating other breast cancer risk factors, including chemicals used in household products. There are so many types of chemicals that we are exposed to and they can get into our bodies, especially our breasts. The breast is particularly sensitive, and many of these chemicals are endocrine disruptors, meaning that they can look and act a lot like the hormone estrogen, which is known to fuel the growth of some breast cancers.
Science is still working to determine if endocrine disruptors contribute to cancer, but here are the most common compounds to avoid.
Pesticides and herbicides
Pesticides are regularly used to minimize damage to crops and maximize harvest production. A 2011 research paper suggested there may be a link between the herbicide atrazine and breast cancer, according to studies in rats. It is important to note that currently, no studies show a causal relationship between atrazine exposure and breast cancer. The EU banned atrazine in 2005 after discovering its harmful effects on wildlife. Approximately 70 million pounds of atrazine are applied to crops annually for weed control. Choosing organic produce is an effective way to minimize your exposure.
Phthalates in household products
Phthalates are commonly used in air fresheners and can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. In one study, women who reported using air fresheners had an increased risk for breast cancer. It is important to note that the study looked only at women already diagnosed with breast cancer who were asked to estimate their past use of air fresheners. Air fresheners may also contain terpenes, which can react with background ozone to form formaldehyde, a carcinogen, as well as benzene and styrene, both of which have been linked to breast cancers in animals. This study also asked the participants to recall their use of products that eliminate mold or mildew, which contain endocrine-disrupting antimicrobials, phthalates, and alkylphenolic surfactants.
Parabens in cosmetics
Many cosmetics may contain chemicals known as parabens. Common parabens used as preservatives in your makeup include methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben. Parabens can penetrate the skin and act like a very weak estrogen, which may trigger the cells that lead to breast cancer. Your body is particularly sensitive during specific stages including pregnancy, breastfeeding, puberty and menopause.
Phthalates in nail polish
Nail polish can contain phthalates, which have been linked to hormone disruption. Many nail polishes also contain formaldehyde, a chemical that also may raise cancer risks, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
BPA in canned foods
A recent study in Environmental Research linked found that canned soups and pastas were linked to higher levels of BPA or bisphenol A, a known endocrine disruptor. BPA is used to make polycarbonate plastic. BPA leaches from can linings into foods and then into our own bodies. BPA increased the occurrence of breast cancer in laboratory animals, even in small doses. Look for canned foods that state specifically that the cans are BPA-free. Or, purchase frozen foods instead.
Triclosan in antibacterials
The key ingredient that makes a soap antibacterial is a compound called triclosan, which has been the subject of many studies. While the jury is still out on whether triclosan in linked to breast cancer, the FDA has noted that triclosan-containing products offer no additional benefit over regular soap and water. It may be safer to limit your exposure to triclosan.
Particles from your fireplace
Your fireplace may emit polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). In addition, space heaters and even cooking fumes may contain these particles. Studies have shown that some women with breast cancer have higher exposure rates in the blood and tissue. Air filters can help minimize your exposure.
While researchers work to answer questions about how or if these household products affect breast cancer risk, there are things to do today to proactively protect your health. You can exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and minimize sugars, refined carbohydrates, and seed oils to improve the odds that you will not get breast cancer. Get regular screenings for an early diagnosis and access to treatments.