In a groundbreaking study, scientists have revealed that more than 900 chemicals, frequently found in consumer products and the environment, exhibit traits associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This discovery comes at a crucial time when the prevalence of breast cancer, particularly among young women, is on the rise, and traditional explanations fall short.
THE CHALLENGE OF SYNTHETIC CHEMICALS
With an ever-growing array of synthetic chemicals flooding the market, the task of identifying potentially harmful ones poses a significant challenge for both regulatory agencies and the industries utilizing these substances. However, a new study led by Dr. Jennifer Kay, a research scientist at Silent Spring Institute, provides a promising solution.
A PREDICTIVE ROADMAP
The research team developed a quick and effective method to predict whether a chemical is likely to cause breast cancer based on specific traits it harbours. By scrutinizing multiple international and U.S. government databases, the scientists identified 921 chemicals known to cause mammary tumours in animals or act as endocrine disruptors—chemicals altering the body’s hormones in ways that could promote breast cancer.
COMMON EXPOSURES
Disturbingly, 90 percent of these identified chemicals are ones to which people are commonly exposed through consumer products, food and drink, pesticides, medications, and workplaces. The study sheds light on the pervasiveness of these potentially harmful substances in everyday life.
HORMONAL LINKS TO BREAST CANCER
The study focused on chemicals that activate the estrogen receptor in breast cells, cause cells to produce more estrogen or progesterone, and are associated with mammary tumours in animals. With breast cancer being a hormonal disease, the findings underscore the concerning prevalence of chemicals capable of altering estrogen and progesterone.
DNA DAMAGE AND HORMONE DISRUPTION
To further assess the risk, the researchers cross-referenced databases and identified 420 chemicals on their list that not only damage DNA but also alter hormones. This dual impact raises the stakes, making these chemicals potentially riskier for breast cancer. The study suggests that chemicals causing mammary tumours in animals are more likely to exhibit these DNA-damaging and hormone-disrupting traits.
IMPLICATIONS FOR SAFETY ASSESSMENT
The study’s implications extend to how regulatory bodies, particularly the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), assess chemical safety. Over 30 pesticides, previously approved by the EPA despite links to mammary tumours, are among the chemicals flagged in this comprehensive study. The authors hope their findings will influence EPA’s strategic plan, ensuring a more rigorous evaluation of chemicals, especially regarding their effects on hormones.
URGENT CALL FOR PREVENTION STRATEGIES
As breast cancer rates continue to climb, particularly among young women, the study serves as a call to action. Dr. Jennifer Kay emphasizes that the findings provide a roadmap for regulators and manufacturers to swiftly identify and avoid chemicals that could contribute to breast cancer, facilitating the development of safer alternatives.
In a world inundated with synthetic substances, this study marks a crucial step toward prioritizing health and safety, urging a reevaluation of the chemicals we encounter daily.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Reproductive history; Starting menstrual periods before age 12 and starting menopause after age 55 can increase the risk of breast cancer.
Genes; Women who have inherited changes to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, have a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Some ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer include:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Being physically active
Limiting alcohol consumption
Discussing the risks of hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives with a doctor
