Antiperspirant/Deodorant & Breast Cancer Risk

Parabens are chemicals used as preservatives used in foods, drugs, and cosmetics. Parabens are not active in the human body following oral consumption, but have inherent estrogenic and other hormone-related activity when administered topically. Because estrogens are implicated in the growth and development of the majority of human breast cancers, it has been suggested by researcher Phillipa Darbre, Ph.D., that parabens and other chemicals in underarm cosmetics may contribute to the rising incidence of breast cancer, and studies are proposed to determine the effects of long-term low-level exposure to these weakly estrogenic chemicals. One study showed that frequency and earlier onset of antiperspirant/deodorant usage with underarm shaving were associated with an earlier age of breast cancer diagnosis. Other research suggests that absorption of aluminum salts present in deodorants might be increased when the skin's protective barrier is disrupted by underarm shaving. These findings are preliminary and do not necessarily call for changes in hygiene unless instructed by a physician. Contact our compounding pharmacy if you have need of preservative-free medications or cosmetics.

J Appl Toxicol.  2004 Jan-Feb;24(1):5-13
J Appl Toxicol.  2004 Jan-Feb;24(1):1-4
J Appl Toxicol.  2003 Sep-Oct;23(5):285-8
 

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