For those of you who like to use deodorant, naturally The news that deodorants can trigger breast cancer is causing concern. Is that true? Come on, find out the true facts about this.
The location of the armpit close to the breast raises the suspicion that the chemical products used in this area can cause cell changes in the breast. One of them is deodorant. The content of certain substances in deodorants is feared to trigger breast cancer.
Deodorant content suspected of causing cancer
The ingredients suspected of triggering breast cancer are aluminum-based compounds contained in some deodorant products. This material forms a temporary blockage of the sweat glands, thereby stopping the flow of sweat on the skin's surface. However, the absorption of this material by the skin is said to stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.
In addition to aluminum compounds, other elements called parabens are also suspected of causing a similar effect. On the packaging label, the paraben content listed can be named methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben or benzylparaben.
Facts about the use of deodorant and breast cancer
Rumors are circulating that the chemicals in deodorants prevent the body from getting rid of toxins. This causes the substance to reach the lymph nodes and cause cell changes to become cancer cells.
Several other studies also claim that these chemicals can interact with DNA and cause changes in breast cells, thereby increasing the risk of causing breast cancer.
However, there are also research results that reveal different facts. In this study, no strong evidence was found for the above allegations. Here are the details:
- Research states that parabens are found in breast tumor tissue from some samples of breast cancer patients. However, it does not necessarily prove that parabens are the cause of tumors.
- In addition, the parabens found are not necessarily derived from deodorants. There are many other cosmetics that contain parabens, which also pose a risk of being absorbed through the skin's surface. So it cannot be concluded that only deodorants are the cause of parabens in the human body, and cause cancer.
- Most deodorants on the market today do not contain parabens.
- Another study with a larger sample found that there was no increased risk of breast cancer in women who used deodorant. Likewise for those who use an armpit shaver.
- Breast cancer was also found in women who did not use deodorant products containing these suspected harmful ingredients, as well as in women who did not often shave their armpits.
- Other factors, such as having a family member with breast cancer and taking the contraceptive pill, were more influential than the use of deodorant.
In conclusion, until now there is no strong scientific evidence that can prove the alleged deodorant can cause breast cancer. But if you are still in doubt, look at the ingredients contained in the deodorant by reading the description on the packaging. Although not medically proven, considering the fact that human body tissue can absorb and store parabens, it is better to avoid using products that contain these ingredients.
In addition, you can also try natural ways to get rid of body odor, such as applying tea or lemon on the armpits. In Indonesia, alum is also often used to eliminate body odor.
If you still have questions about deodorants or have problems with excessive sweating and body odor, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
