Common Toxic Causes of Breast Cancer

As this month is breast cancer awareness month, we feel that it is important to discuss the true causes of breast cancer. 

There are many misconceptions about breast cancer. Some misconceptions about breast cancer are:

• Only women with a family history of breast cancer are at risk

• There’s nothing you can do to decrease your risk of breast cancer

• Antiperspirants cause breast cancer

• Only women can develop breast cancer

• Coffee can cause breast cancer

However, these are only misconceptions and are not true. The truth is, many environmental factors and toxins from our world are the leading cause of breast cancer.

What Toxins Cause Breast Cancer?

There are many environmental factors and chemicals that cause breast cancer. Here we will list the top 10 causes:

1. Alcohol

2. Parabens

3. Phthalates

4. Formaldehyde

5. Triclosan

6. Fragrance

7. Bisphenol A (BPA)

8. Climate Change

9. Solvents

10. Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane (DDT)

Photo by Prem Pal Singh Tanwar.

1. Alcohol

Alcohol is a main cause of breast cancer. There are many studies that have found a link between alcohol and an increase in the risk of breast cancer. The more alcoholic beverages consumed per day increases the potential risk of breast cancer.

Photo by Sarah Chai.

2. Parabens

Parabens can affect the mechanisms of normal breast cells. They can potentially influence abnormal growth in breast tissue which leads to an increased risk for breast cancer. 

Some products that contain parabens include shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, lotions, makeup, and shaving products.

Photo by Jess Bailey Designs.

3. Phthalates

Phthalates are endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors are natural or man-made chemicals that interfere with the body’s hormones. The exposure to phthalates has been linked to breast cancer. 

Some products that contain phthalates include nail polish, perfumes, deodorants, hair gels, soaps, and hair sprays.

Photo by David Waschbüsch.

4. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is an organic chemical usually used in a water solution as a preservative and disinfectant. Working with formaldehyde can increase your chance of having fertility problems, miscarriage, and risk of breast cancer.

Some products that contain formaldehyde include building materials, insulation, permanent press fabrics, paints, paper products, and resins.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska.

5. Triclosan

Triclosan is a xenoestrogen. Xenoestrogen are “foreign” estrogens that are close in molecular structure to estrogen. Trisclosan can displace estradiol from its receptors or potentially increase exposure to estradiol. This has been a risk factor identified in the development of breast cancer.

Some products that contain triclosan include dish soaps, face wash, liquid soaps, hand gels, toothpastes, and shave gels.

Photo by RODNAE Productions.

6. Fragrance

Many fragrance chemicals are linked to breast cancer. The term “fragrance” covers over 4,000 chemicals used by the fragrance industry to formulate scents for beauty, cleaning, and home care products.

Some products that contain fragrance include laundry detergents, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, air fresheners, incense products, candles, and cosmetics.

Photo by Julia M Cameron.

7. Bisphenol A (BPA)

Bisphenol A induces the proliferation of the androgen-sensitive human prostate cancer cells. BPA has been found to increase the risk of breast cancer.

Some products that contain BPA include canned foods, toiletries, menstrual products, eyeglass lenses, and household electronics.

Photo by Julia M Cameron.

8. Enviromental Toxins

Environmental toxins increase the risk of breast cancer. Invisible chemicals in our environment increase the toxic burden of our bodies. Additionally, severe pollution adds toxicity to the tap water we use. 

Photo by Liliana Drew.

9. Solvents

Solvent vapors and mists are hazardous to the human body. Research shows organic solvents can potentially increase the risk of breast cancer. 

Some products that contain solvents include nail polish remover, markers, cosmetics, and household cleaners.

Photo by Rickie-Tom Schünemann.

10. Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane (DDT)

Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane is a pesticide that was first used during World War II. DDT was used in agriculture during the 1950s and 1960s. The U.S. banned DDT in 1972 but it can remain in the environment for over 100 years. Exposure to DDT can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Some products that contain DDT include fatty foods, meat, seafood, certain vegetables, and dairy products.

Early Detection

It is a good idea to constantly check for signs of breast cancer. Though we hope to remain in good health, learning how to detect signs of breast cancer is important. If signs begin to appear then it is better to start treatment in the earlier stages of breast cancer. Here are some ways to self-check.

Mirror Check

Spend time looking at your breasts in the mirror. Put your hands over your head and then on your hips. Move your body so you can see every part of your breasts. Don’t forget your side and under boob.

Here you are looking for any new lumps, swelling, or bumpy areas in one breast or armpit that was not there before.

Massage Check

Put one hand behind your head. Place three fingers to your breast and massage in a circular motion.

Here you are looking for anything that strikes you as different or not your “normal.”

Nipple Check

Squeeze each nipple. If there is any discharge or pain, see a doctor right away.

Breast Cancer Prevention

There are many factors that contribute to the increased risk of breast cancer. Many of these factors are found in household items or products used on a daily basis. This information is overwhelming and may be scary. However, it is important to note that there are a variety of things you can do to lower your risk of breast cancer.

Here are some things you can do lower your risk of breast cancer:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day 3-5 times a week

• Lower your alcohol intake

• Check your product labels and stay away from the chemicals we listed above

• Find ways to de-stress that works for you

• Keep your phone at a safe distance away from your breasts

• Go outside, let your skin soak up the sun

• Stay away from plastic

• Explore all birth control options

• Know your body and be your own health advocate

BeachCandy Mission

Here at BeachCandy, we are aware of the toxicity in our world. We are currently working towards a cleaner future by ridding ourselves of the toxins found in the fashion industry. 

We have traveled to India in order to learn about natural fibers and how we can transition into and become an ethical swimwear brand. Follow us through on our mission in creating eco-friendly products. In order to start from scratch, BeachCandy is hosting the biggest sale in our history to clear out our previous designs and styles. Shop the BC Sale-on-Sale.

Also read our most recent blog: Top 10 Most Toxic Food Additives

Follow BeachCandy Swimwear On Instagram

This blog provides general information and discussions about wellness and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This blog does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. We cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.

Suggestions of changes to diet or exercise may not be suitable for everyone. Please consult with your doctor before attempting any changes to decide whether or not such changes would be right for you.

If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials.