Research links over 400 chemicals in plastic products to breast cancer ByHT Lifestyle Desk | Edited by Sanya Panwar Dec 08, 2024 04:01 PM IST Share Via Copy Link According to recent findings, exposure to these commonly found chemicals might increase the risk of breast cancer among young women. Research has identified over 400 chemicals […]
Research links over 400 chemicals in plastic products to breast cancer
According to recent findings, exposure to these commonly found chemicals might increase the risk of breast cancer among young women.
Research has identified over 400 chemicals associated with breast cancer being utilized in plastic items that are everyday staples, potentially contributing to the rising cancer incidences in younger women. Numerous harmful chemicals such as PFAS, phthalates, parabens, and aromatic amines are included in items like food packaging, personal care goods, and disposable plastics, resulting in frequent exposures. Also read | Breast cancer: 4 early signs that women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s should be aware of
Although the results of the study, released by The American Chemical Society, emphasize the ‘extensive and problematic’ under-regulation of plastics, the researchers advocate for significant regulatory reforms. Plastic is known to contain more than 16,000 different chemicals, many of which pose significant risks to human health and the environment, while others lack any established toxicological data, they added.
Findings of the study
The current study follows recent research from Silent Spring that uncovered over 900 chemicals in use that correlate with breast cancer. The research team verified that cohort against a database of plastic-related chemicals and identified 414 correspondences.
The authors of the study emphasize that the likelihood of women being diagnosed with cancer before the age of 50 is twice that of men – with breast cancer being a significant factor – indicating that exposure to these plastic chemicals is likely an important element of the equation.
Further information
The chemicals recognized either induce mammary tumors in animal research, disrupt hormone production, are genotoxic, or involve various combinations of each pathway leading to breast cancer. Despite these acknowledged dangers, plastic overall is still a minimally regulated material, mainly due to the lobbying influence of the petrochemical and plastic industries.
On an individual basis, women can adopt certain measures to safeguard their health, the researchers suggest. Since diet plays a critical role, steering clear of plastics in kitchenware and food containers might significantly lessen exposure.
Disclaimer: This article serves informational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician for any inquiries regarding a health issue.
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