A bundle of scientific reports indicate more than 200 chemicals, found in the air and in consumer products, cause breast cancer in animal tests.Researchers report in an American Cancer Society publication that reducing exposure to such compounds could prevent many women from developing the disease.
Family history and genetic make-up are responsible for only a small percentage of breast cancer cases. Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet, are most likely involved in the majority of cases, say experts.
These finding are too incomplete to make widespread conclusions, but still, they are considered "the most comprehensive compilation to date of chemicals identified as mammary carcinogens" and are so convincing the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, in response to the reports, pledged $5 million for developing research tools to investigate environmental causes.
There are 216 chemicals that induced breast tumors in animals. Of these, 97 directly affect humans and include industrial solvents, pesticides, dyes, gasoline and diesel exhaust compounds, cosmetics ingredients, hormones, pharmaceuticals, radiation, and a chemical in chlorinated drinking water.
1. This news is actually exciting in some ways, since it provides further ideas on ways women can lower their risk of developing breast cancer. Reading through the silent spring data, however, is a bit confusing for anyone that does not read chemistry texts during their spare time. We have started compiling a list of common household products that contain these chemicals as well as possible solutions/alternatives. This is available at www.avoidcancernow.com on the left side of the home page under breast cancer news. We have already lost too many friends from breast cancer, and want those who are with us to have an awareness of anything they can do to lower their risk. Thanks for posting this.
Lynne Eldridge M.D.
Author, "Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time"
http://www.avoidcancernow.com
Posted at 10:45AM on May 18th 2007 by Lynne Eldridge M.D.