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Parabens and Cancer...Hype or Reality?The relationship between parabens and cancer is a hot topic. Should you be worried?
Much of the controversial stems from a small study conducted at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom in 2003. The findings? Samples of breast cancer tissue contained parabens in 18 of 20 tumors.
First, the chemical name is Alkyl Hydroxy Benzoate Preservatives. Phew!
Parabens are the most commonly used preservative in personal care products. They are widely used in everything from shampoo to personal lubricants. Actually, parabens are hiding in over 13,000 products! A surprising piece of information is that parabens are added to food products and prescription drugs. The sobering fact is that most of us are exposed to numerous parabens on a daily basis.
Suspicions concerning parabens and cancer first appeared back in 1998. At that time, studies began to expose the estrogen-like property of parabens. Twelve studies have confirmed estrogen-like activity in laboratory rats injected with parabens. The results indicate a weak form of estrogen, but it's there. On a positive note, the researchers found that parabens ingested orally show no estrogen activity. It appears that parabens in food and medications are insignificant. (Well that's good news!) What are the concerns?
The "Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association" maintains that parabens are safe. Scientists from the international community, however, are not so sure. Many experts believe the issue requires further study. Why the concern? To begin with, the estrogen-like activity relates to the research findings of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT studies established a connection between estrogen and breast cancer. Note: the estrogen activity in parabens is weak compared to HRT. Next, consider the fact that parabens are used in the majority of personal care products. Just look in your own bathroom cupboard. Even many "natural" skin care products use these preservatives. This translates to widespread, daily use over the course of many years. The significance of this raises a cautionary flag. Consider that personal care products expose an adult to an average of 126 unique chemicals daily! What is the risk of combining parabens with other chemicals? And what is the cumulative effect? We just don't know at this time.
This scientific study was not flawless...
Are parabens carcinogenic?
This study does not prove a cause and effect relationship between parabens and cancer. It does indicate more research is needed to determine the safety of these chemicals. Remember, parabens are used daily by masses of people, including children.
So now what do you do? Unfortunately, there are no easy, clear-cut answers. To help you make sense of it all, here is a list of what we know and what we don't know, at this time... We Can Say...
What products should concern you the most? The greatest potential risk comes from "leave on' products. The kind that remain on your skin. These have more time to penetrate and enter your bloodstream...
Products that are on your body for a short time and are then rinsed off are less likely to be absorbed...
Of course, you might consider eliminating all personal care products that contain parabens.
I base my choices according to the public health principle that encourages preventative action. I don't want to wait until all of the scientific "proof" is in. The "Precautionary Principle" simply states: if there is the potential for harm, it's best to err on the side of caution. (Read: Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid.) Scientists worldwide are calling for research to revisit the "parabens and cancer" issue. Their concern, combined with the research above, is sufficient doubt of paraben safety in my view. I'm not waiting years for definitive "proof".
Fortunately, manufacturers are beginning to eliminate parabens from their skin care products. Read labels, maintain peace of mind... avoid parabens if possible. Opt for a safe, pure natural skin care product. Want more healthy skin tips?
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