Everyday objects potentially linked to cancer: a closer look at their harmful effects
The cancer crisis is spiraling wildly out of control.
Growing up, I didn't know a soul who fell victim to cancer. Now, it seems the disease is snatching more people I care about each year – including my grandfather, lost to lung cancer, my uncle to liver cancer, my father-in-law to bladder cancer, and my aunt wrestling with ovarian cancer. Sadly, my family isn't the only one experiencing this heartbreaking reality as over 38 percent of individuals will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetimes.
So, what's driving this surge in cancer diagnoses?
Dr. Isaac Eliaz believes that only about half of us believe our eating habits and lifestyle choices could influence our cancer risk. This misconception suggests that many of us feel powerless when it comes to preventing cancer.
However, taking control of your cancer risks is simpler than you may think. With a few alterations in your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing cancer. Here are five household items that influence your cancer risk right now... and some practical steps to minimize your chances of developing the disease...
#1 - Booze
While enjoying a good glass of wine might be a delight with dinner, alcohol and cancer often go hand in hand. In fact, alcohol has links to an increased risk of breast, esophageal, liver, colorectal, head, and neck cancers[1].
But why is there a connection between alcohol and cancer? Simple: Your body transforms the alcohol in every drink you consume into acetaldehyde. Unfortunately, this acetaldehyde can actually harm your DNA – a step towards cancer. It also damages your liver, leading to inflammation and scarring, and slowing down your body's ability to eliminate harmful chemicals, leaving your cells "Cancer-Prone[2]."
Does that imply you shouldn't drink alcohol at all? Absolutely, giving up alcohol is far better for your cancer risk than excess drinking. However, there might be a "drinking sweet spot" that reduces your cancer risk more than complete abstinence[2].
#2 - Paper plates and microwave popcorn
Convenience, we love it, but it could potentially kill us, especially when it comes to paper plates and microwave popcorn bags.
They're lined with grease-proof chemicals called perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) and PFASs, which have been linked to immunity problems, cancer, and other health issues[3].
These toxins have a long half-life in the body, which means it takes several years for just 50 percent of the chemical to leave your system.
#3 - Air fresheners and scented candles
I'm the first to appreciate that wonderful, fresh scent in the air, but I bet you didn't imagine breathing in embalming chemicals with every deep whiff.
Studies show that many air fresheners and scented candles contain formaldehyde – yes, that chemical used to preserve corpses. Exposure to this harmful substance may increase cancer risks[4]. In addition to your air fresheners, you'll find this carcinogen lurking throughout your home in pressed wood, particleboard, plywood and some insulation materials[5].
#4 - Non-stick pans
Those non-stick pans you enjoy cooking with could potentially be giving you cancer. Most of these pans are coated with Perfluorinated Perfluorochemicals, also called PFOAs. These chemicals come from the same family of toxic substances linked to cancer, such as those found in paper plates and microwave popcorn bags[3].
To minimize your exposure to these cancer-causing agents, swap out your non-stick pan for a safer alternative.
#5 - Sunscreen
Sunscreens containing ingredients like oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate could do more harm than good. FDA researchers worry that retinyl palmitate may damage skin cells and promote skin cancer[6]. Furthermore, many sunscreens contain oxybenzone, a substance that is thought to alter hormones.
Sunscreen chemicals are thought to elevate the prevalence of free radicals, the unstable atoms and molecules that damage DNA. Additionally, compounds like titanium dioxide have been shown to cause genetic damage in mice[6].
Before you slather up, make sure to read the labels of your sunscreens and toss out the dangerous ones hiding in your bathroom cabinets. Opting for zinc oxide, a safe and broad-spectrum sun protection, would be your best choice.
Every day, we're exposed to more and more cancer-causing agents, even in our homes. By understanding the harmful ingredients to avoid and taking precautions, you can help ensure that you and your family are as healthy as possible.
[Editor's note: Learn how to live a proactive cancer-prevention lifestyle here! Discover the power of food, vitamins, minerals, and herbs, as well as lesser-known therapies that American mainstream medicine won't tell you about[7]].
[Sources:][1] National Cancer Institute – Cancer Statistics[2] National Cancer Institute – Alcohol and Cancer Risk[3] American Cancer Society – Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk[4] National Cancer Institute – Alcohol Use and Cancer[5] American Cancer Society – Teflon and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)[6] American Cancer Society – Five year change in alcohol intake and risk of breast cancer and coronary heart disease among postmenopausal women: prospective cohort study[7] Environmental Working Group – National Study: Toxic Nonstick Chemicals Still Found in Many Fast Food Wrappers[8] National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences – Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs)[9] Daily Mail – Why air fresheners and scented candles can wreck your health: They could cause cancerous DNA mutations and asthma[10] Chemistry World – DuPont found liable for cancer case[11] Easy Health Options – The Truth About Sunscreen And Cancer
Scientific research suggests that poor dietary choices, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and exposure to certain household items can increase one's risk of developing cancer. For instance, alcohol consumption has links to an increased risk of various cancers, as the body transforms alcohol into acetaldehyde, which can harm DNA and lead to inflammation.
Additionally, some household items such as paper plates and microwave popcorn bags contain chemicals like perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) and PFASs, which have been associated with immunity problems, cancer, and other health issues. These toxins have a long half-life in the body, taking several years for just 50% of the chemical to leave your system.
Practical steps to minimize cancer risk include limiting alcohol intake, avoiding grease-proof household items containing PFCs, and choosing air fresheners, scented candles, and non-stick pans free of formaldehyde and PFOAs. Lastly, opt for sunscreens containing zinc oxide to ensure broad-spectrum sun protection, while avoiding those with oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, which may increase cancer risks.
