(ProsperNews.net) – Women with some cancers had high levels of “forever chemicals” in their blood, according to a new scientific discovery. A study published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology looked at possible links between hormone-related cancers, such as ovarian or uterine cancer, and three classes of probable endocrine disruptors. These were per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), phenols, and parabens, otherwise known as “forever chemicals” because of their persistence and survival ability in various environments.
Worryingly, these chemicals are found in everyday household items. Phenols, for example, are contained in some plastics, sunscreen creams, and cleaning products. Parabens are used as preservatives in pharmaceuticals, drinks, and some foods, while PFAS, linked to several cancers, is found in cooking utensils, waterproof garments, and cosmetics.
Amber Cathey from the University of Michigan said, “PFAS and phenol chemicals appear to disrupt hormone function in women.” She added that the chemicals are “one potential mechanism that increases the odds of hormone-related cancers in women.”
Exposure to “forever chemicals” is also linked to liver problems, fertility issues, and high blood pressure.
Researchers reviewed data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2018 to conduct the study. Data from more than 48,000 patients was investigated, and results showed that women with high exposure to PFAS were twice as likely to have had a previous melanoma diagnosis. Additionally, women exposed to higher levels of phenols – used in plastic and dyes – were more likely to have suffered from ovarian cancer.
The study furthermore found discrepancies along racial lines. For example, white women were more likely to have past uterine or ovarian cancer diagnoses than black women. However, black women were more at risk of phenol and paraben-linked breast cancer.
Researchers were cautious not to conclude that the chemicals caused specific cancers but believe there is enough correlation to warrant much more extensive investigation. No link between “forever chemicals” and male cancers was discovered.
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