While many of us would like to believe we live a relatively healthy lifestyle, most are unaware of how many toxic chemicals are lurking in common household items. Elements like parabens, EPS, radon and BPA are just a few that are directly linked to cancer. While it’d be nice to believe the FDA does a good job at filtering out these harmful products, it’s sadly not the case.
For example, 1328 chemicals are approved by the FDA to be used in the U.S on cosmetics which are illegal in Europe. Therefore, we must take matters into our own hands when it comes to safeguarding our health. It’s important to be informed and do our own research when determining what’s safe for you and your family. Here, we’ll go into detail on 6 common household items directly linked to cancer and some safer alternatives for you and your family.
6 cancer-causing Household Products
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Talcum powder
- Talc has been used for decades for absorbing moisture and avoiding diaper rashes and chafing. However, the problem is the talc itself. Talc is made of a combination of silicon, magnesium and oxygen. It is chemically related to another toxic chemical, asbestos.
- Talc has been proven to cause inflammation and damage to reproductive organs. Talc powder distributors have faced major lawsuits in recent years. For example, a victim was awarded $417 million in damages after developing ovarian cancer caused by the use of Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder.
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Laundry detergent
- Many Laundry detergents and softeners contain harsh chemicals that can cause skin and throat irritation, rashes, dryness, itchiness, sinus problems and carcinogenicity. Elements to be on the lookout for in a product’s ingredients are 1,4-Dioxane, sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonia, phenols, phosphates, enzymes and more. You can find an extensive list here. Our recommendation: go with an all-natural, scent-free detergent instead.
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Shampoo
- The secret culprit hiding behind most people’s daily beauty regimen are shampoos and conditioners. Popular brands are often filled with harmful chemicals that can cause dandruff, flaky scalp, hair loss, and are directly associated with different forms of cancer. Toxic chemicals commonly found in shampoos and conditioners include parabens (often in the form of methylparaben), sodium lauryl sulfate, parfum and more. Several studies have been done since 2010 showing toxic parabens in actual cancer tissue. If you can, try to go for a sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo and conditioner.
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Styrofoam cups/plates
- The formal name for Styrofoam is Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). EPS is another form of plastic but differs from conventional plastic in that it can enter into your food and drink much more easily, especially when heated. Not only that, but an element in polystyrene called styrene has also been classified as a carcinogen. A new healthier alternative to packaging? Mushroom foam.
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Granite countertops
- Granite tops are typically a desired and aesthetically pleasing detail to add to a kitchen or new home. What many people don’t know is that granite tops can release a chemical gas called Radon, which has been directly linked to lung cancer and are currently being evaluated for safety in homes. As the second leading cause of lung cancer, Radon can damage the cells within the lining of the lungs. While researchers are still evaluating its safety in homes, you may want to play it safe and go for quartz instead.
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Plastic
- Many know that plastic bottles are bad for you. But what about plastic containers? BPA is present in the majority of plastic products unless specifically labeled as “BPA free.” Water bottles and other plastics can leach chemicals into your water or food from the first taste. While BPA-free products are deemed safe to use, many still have their doubts. Experts recommend opting for non-plastic reusable bottles and glassware instead.
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