Until a few years ago, no one knew what carcinogens were. It was flung around by the scientific community, and as long as it didn’t affect the layperson, it wasn’t a problem. This is until the public was alerted to the potential cancer risks associated with the substance.
Thus far experts have identified more than 100 carcinogens, and those are only the ones we know of. Here’s where things become blurred because according to the Cleveland Clinic, carcinogens can be physical, chemical or biological.
In basic terms, the substance can occur in ultraviolet rays from the sun, asbestos and even an infection caused by some viruses.
How Carcinogens Cause Cancer
For the record, coming into contact with a carcinogen does not mean you’ll get cancer. It’s a bit more complicated than that.
Many factors depend on whether you’ll get sick, but the biggest one is the link between carcinogens and your genetic makeup.
In short, your genes provide instructions for making proteins that control cell growth and division. When carcinogens alter your DNA, it triggers a chain reaction that transforms normal cells into cancerous ones.
WHO Classifies Talc as ‘Probably Carcinogenic’
For decades, people have argued the connection between talc-based baby powder and asbestos contamination.
Now that the Johnson And Johnson talc lawsuit is in full swing, more evidence has come to light. The company faces numerous talcum powder lawsuits, claiming that its Johnson baby powder caused ovarian cancer and mesothelioma due to asbestos contamination.
As the global brand plans to wrap up its U.S. talc lawsuit, it faces the threat of class action in the U.K., reports FiercePharma. But its legal battle is far from over.
Reuters says J&J will struggle to resolve litigation if the proposed $6.5-billion settlement is not approved by the majority of plaintiffs.
In the same breath, TorHoerman Law notes that 259 new cases have been added to the Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder MDL in the last month.
To add insult to injury, the company could find itself deeper in a hole. In July, the WHO classified talc as “probably carcinogenic” to humans, the second-highest level of certainty. Previously, talc was considered a “possible carcinogen.”
A group of 29 scientists from 13 countries published their findings in the Lancet Oncology. Their discovery stemmed from studies showing an increased ovarian cancer risk in women using talcum powder in the genital area, though a causal link was not fully established.
Unfortunately, it’s not only talcum powder that has been found to contain carcinogens. They could be lurking in everyday products or regularly consumed foods.
Processed Meats
You didn’t think something as harmless as processed meats could make the list? Neither did we.
Jefferson Health says sausage, hot dogs, and deli meats contain chemical preservatives (nitrates and nitrites) that can damage the gastrointestinal tract.
Hematologist-oncologist Dr Eduardo Fernandez explains that once in the gut, these chemicals are converted into a harmful compound that damages the gut lining cells. Over time, the damage allows for the occurrence of stomach or colorectal cancer.
Alcohol
Hey, don’t shoot the messenger. We’re only here to give you the facts.
The long-term consumption of alcohol has its associated risks, but a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has added another problem for frequent drinkers. More than 5% of cancer cases were attributed to alcohol use.
Although experts don’t know how exactly alcohol causes cancer, research suggests it causes oxidative stress and cell damage. Most cancers linked to alcohol are esophageal cancer and colon cancer.
Asbestos
Previously used in the construction industry to insulate buildings and roofs, asbestos can still be found in older homes.
According to The Conversation, the notorious carcinogen has been detected in makeup, albeit unintentionally.
Talc is a common ingredient in makeup, such as eyeshadow, blush, and face powder, where it acts as a moisture-absorbing, anti-caking agent to improve application.
Talc-based cosmetics could pose a consumer risk like smoking and consumers must be informed of the potential dangers, adds the publication.
Our understanding of carcinogens remains limited. Medical Xpress says currently, the potential for cancer prevention through reducing hazardous chemicals in daily life is underexplored and warrants more attention.
In the meantime, it’s best to be cautious. Do your research and check household product labels for any trace of asbestos, talc powder or any item that possibly contains carcinogens. The threat could be closer to home than you think.
