Paraben Linked to Breast Cancer – Paraben is a preservative found in many products, that acts like an estrogen in the body. Researchers examined breast tissue from 20 breast cancer patients and found parabens in that tissue.
These researchers did not look at healthy breast tissue or tissue from other parts of the body to check for parabens, so we do not know if all tissues contain parabens.
One other surveyed women with breast cancer. They found that those who started using these products at younger ages and used them more frequently were diagnosed with breast cancer at an earlier age. This study did not include any women without breast cancer, which makes it impossible to apply the results to everyone.
Bottom line is – more research is needed. Parabens are a group of preservatives, used to prevent bacterial growth, and are found in many things, including cosmetics, food and beverages. If you want to avoid these parabens, check the ingredient list for any of the following: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, parahydroxybenzoate or parahydroxybenzoate and find one that doesn’t contain them. I have eliminated most of these items in my house, and it wasn’t as difficult as I thought it was going to be. I was surprised to find these ingredients in so many places. One product that I don’t know how to replace is the liquid pain reliever/fever reducer (acetominophen and ibuprofen).
Of note, the National Institutes of Health have a website that allows you to check the ingredients and safety of household products. It is called the Household Products Database.
