Home : Health : Beware Of These 5 Household Items That Can Increase Cancer Risk

Beware of these 5 household items that can increase cancer risk

Beware of these 5 household items that can increase cancer risk

Cancer is one of the leading conditions with fatal conditions affecting people worldwide. The condition is characterized by an uncontrolled mutation of healthy cells that get destroyed while spreading, affecting vital organs and functions. Several risk factors and triggers are involved based on the type of cancer and exposure. However, unbeknownst to many, certain daily-use household items can increase one’s risk of getting the condition. Five such instances where risk is high are discussed below.

Household furniture
Preservatives are added to increase the durability and shelf life of certain products. But one of the significant carcinogens linked to cancer, called formaldehyde, is heavily used in household furniture installations and furnishings. Unknowingly, people are at risk of developing this chronic illness due to repeated exposure due to certain materials used in making furniture and home upgrades. Common items like plywood, particle boards, paneling, foam insulation, wall paint, wallpapers, synthetic fabrics used in furnishing, and even many cosmetic products contain this preservative. These products release the fumes of the preservative. If the house is not airy or there is no proper ventilation, one could be actively inhaling this carcinogen, increasing the risk of known cancers.

Cosmetic products
Even beauty products contain certain chemicals and preservatives that expose the skin and body to cancer. Hair dyes, shampoos, hair fall treatments, and dandruff treatments contain coal tar, a byproduct of coal processing. This compound has been linked to many types of cancer, including lung, kidney, skin, bladder, and digestive tract cancers. In addition, moisturizers, makeup products, and even shaving creams contain parabens, a chemical preservative and active carcinogen. Body washes and antibacterial soaps also contain a preservative called triclosan added to mainly counter bacterial infections. And the infamous talc, a common powder found in blushes, bronzers, makeup powders, and eye shadows, is said to contain asbestos. Asbestos is a natural mineral, but when mixed with talc, the mineral can trigger the formation of cancer-causing agents. It is one of the reasons why many brands are actively shifting towards organic solutions for daily use makeup and accessories.

Nonstick cookware
Nonstick cookware might simplify preparing recipes by ensuring the ingredients don’t stick to the surface. However, eating foods prepared with these utensils raises several health concerns, including cancer risk. The nonstick surface of such appliances contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance PFAS and synthetic chemicals to make the coating stick resistant. Scientists and health experts have referred to these compounds as ‘forever chemicals’ as these chemicals remain in the body. The longer these compounds take to be removed from the body, the higher the chance of carcinogen risk. Therefore, experts advise using a cast iron skillet or stainless-steel utensils as much as possible instead of nonstick cookware. It will limit exposure to PFAS.

Air fresheners
Air fresheners are one of the most widely used household products. Air fresheners are available as canned sprays, vapor gels, and even scented candles. But what many fail to notice is the hundreds of chemicals that go into manufacturing this product. One simple spray contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and preservatives like formaldehyde, phthalates, and dichlorobenzene. All these chemicals are added to make the product more fragrant, increase its shelf life, and even boost its effectiveness. However, repeated exposure to such carcinogens increases the risk of cancer affecting the respiratory system. Children and pregnant women are more likely to develop chronic illnesses with repeated exposure to this product.

Cleaning supplies
Ironically, the products designed to keep one’s home clean and habitable are also some of the primary cancer-causing triggers that go unnoticed. Common products include oven cleaners, furniture polish, floor polish, rug cleaners, upholstery cleaners, dry cleaning chemicals, detergents, dishwashing soap, and even chlorine bleach. All these products contain a combination of volatile organic compounds and several carcinogens that increases cancer risk with repeated exposure. Most of the exposure is firsthand as the products directly release fumes that, when inhaled, can also trigger several chronic respiratory illnesses.

If one notices discomfort after using these products for extended periods, it is advisable to check those symptoms. Health experts also advise switching to organic products that are free of common preservatives and chemicals, mainly if used for beauty and cosmetic purposes.

Most Popular

10 foods for improving blood count and circulation

10 foods for improving blood count and circulation

Poor blood circulation in the body can be brought on by a number of illnesses, such as stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Low blood counts, in which the body is unable to create enough red blood cells (RBCs) every day, can also cause poor circulation. Additionally, symptoms including numbness, intestinal issues, and cramps might result from a low blood count. So here are 10 nutritious foods that support a higher blood count and better circulation. Why is it important to maintain a healthy blood count and circulation? Blood circulation and a healthy blood count are essential for overall well-being. Not only does the blood carry essential nutrients and oxygen throughout the body, but it also eliminates harmful substances and waste products. Maintaining a healthy blood count guarantees enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. Low counts may cause fatigue, anemia, and other health complications. Additionally, proper blood circulation ensures that oxygen-rich blood flows easily across vessels to nourish organs and cells. Without it, people could face various health problems, including hypertension, coronary disease, or stroke – so maintaining healthy circulation and counts is essential for overall well-being. Foods for improving blood count and circulation Our food provides essential nutrients to the body, improving  blood count and blood circulation .
7 cold sore food triggers to avoid

7 cold sore food triggers to avoid

A cold sore is a group of painful tiny blisters that are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). These blisters are also known as fever blisters or herpes simplex labialis. In most cases, the symptoms are the worst when one gets cold sores for the first time. However, after the first outbreak, the body begins to produce antibodies to protect itself from the virus, thus raising immunity against the condition. Managing cold sores – Foods to avoid Usually, cold sores appear when one’s immunity has already been compromised, and unfortunately, they are not as quick to leave. However, these blisters require arginine (a type of amino acid) to replicate and thrive. Hence, depriving the virus of arginine may help reduce the duration of such outbreaks. So, here are some of the foods that must be avoided by patients. Oranges Citrus fruits, such as oranges, contain acid that can cause a burning sensation on contact with the blister. Hence, in addition to avoiding oranges, many healthcare professionals suggest steering clear of citrus fruits like grapefruits as well. Instead, one can opt for bananas and cucumbers to gain optimum nutritional benefits. Pumpkin seeds Although pumpkin seeds are considered incredibly healthy, they are unfortunately rich in arginine.
8 foods that improve kidney and liver function

8 foods that improve kidney and liver function

A healthy kidney and liver are essential to the functioning of other organs in the body, such as the heart, spine, and brain. Keeping this in mind, it is important to provide the body with the best nutritional care possible. There are certain foods that are recommended for improving the health and function of the kidney and liver. Read to know more about the foods that you can add to your regular meals. Cabbage Cabbages have high levels of vitamin B6 and folic acid content, which are known to protect the kidneys from infections and damage. Since cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable, they are known for the phytochemicals which help in breaking the free radicals that damage the body and are also known to cause cancer. They are also high in vitamins like K, C, and fiber. Fatty fish Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and other cold water fish like herring, mackerel, and sardines. These are all oily fish that are great sources of healthy fats that keep the body functioning well. According to several researchers and the National Kidney Foundation, the omega-3s found in fatty fish are responsible for keeping blood pressure in check by keeping the healthy fat in check.
6 effective lawn care tips to maintain a green yard

6 effective lawn care tips to maintain a green yard

In most cases, the lawn is the first thing people see when they visit someone’s house. One could argue that maintaining a green and clean lawn is the best way to give the house an inviting look. However, it is not easy to maintain the space, and people often don’t have the time to design, trim, and prune the landscape. Luckily, there are several lawn maintenance techniques to help maintain and beautify the area easily. Water it early in the morning Watering the lawn grass early in the morning, presumably at about 5 am, keeps it fresh and green for several hours. One can also program their irrigation systems to automatically water the lawn in the morning. Watering early prevents fungal diseases as it gives the grass more than enough time to dry throughout the day. The main benefit of watering the lawn early in the morning is that the grass can absorb enough water before the heat of the afternoon. Also, while watering, one can use the flooding technique instead of using sparse water, as the former forces the soil to retain more water throughout the day. Seed the bare spots Weeds can grow in the bare spots of a lawn if one does not cover them with grass over a long period of time.
Everything to know about child sponsorships

Everything to know about child sponsorships

According to statistics, one out of five American children lives in poverty, making their future incredibly bleak and difficult. Moreover, these children have little access to educational opportunities, further limiting their growth. Hence, many charity organizations offer child sponsorship programs where people donate a particular sum of money to be invested in meeting the needs and requirements of less privileged children. This can range from covering healthcare expenses to giving them educational opportunities. What are child sponsorship programs? Child sponsorships are unique programs that connect children in need to a sponsor, thus enabling them to have access to more opportunities for growth. Furthermore, these programs enable the sponsor to make monthly contributions; if the sponsor desires, they can even maintain correspondence with the child. The contributions towards the sponsorship programs can be as low as $1 a day. The organization uses the amount to ensure children receive schooling from an early age, are literate, and have their basic needs fulfilled. Moreover, some organizations even offer financial assistance till the sponsored child graduates from high school. This helps the children break the cycle of poverty and have better chances in life. How to donate for child sponsorship? As mentioned above, sponsorship donation amounts can be as low as $1 per day.

Popular Articles

6 foods to avoid for people with hearing difficulties
Health
01

6 foods to avoid for people with hearing difficulties

The auditory sense is a crucial aspect of perceiving the world around us. However, approximately 15% of adults in the country report some hearing problems. With advanced technology, several solutions, including hearing aids and assistive devices, have been devised to help individuals with hearing impairment. In addition, following a healthy, curated meal plan can help them control symptoms of hearing impairment. Here are some foods to avoid and general tips for those experiencing hearing difficulties. Foods to avoid for people with hearing difficulties Monosodium glutamate An integral part of several packaged and ready-to-eat foods, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is an excitatory neurotransmitter that can cause severe neurological impairment, worsening the symptoms of hearing conditions like tinnitus. Thus, checking the ingredients in ready-to-eat foods and avoiding those with MSG is advisable. Caffeinated beverages It has been found that excessive intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea can elevate one’s blood pressure and aggravate the symptoms of hearing conditions. However, since caffeine also comprises several antioxidants, it may benefit the body in limited quantities. The key here is to limit one’s intake of tea and coffee. Processed foods Processed foods are high in saturated and trans fats, which can lead to plaque generation in the arteries and problems with blood circulation.
Read More
7 easy teeth whitening remedies to try
Beauty
02

7 easy teeth whitening remedies to try

A smile is one of the first things most people notice when they see someone for the first time. Once people put on a smile, they feel completely dressed; this is why people try to keep their teeth from staining and look for whitening techniques. However, not everyone has the time to frequently visit the dentist and get their teeth whitened. So, one can use these remedies to make their teeth look whiter: Brush with baking soda While this is an important ingredient in cakes and cookies, baking soda is also a vital ingredient in toothpaste because of its natural teeth whitening properties. This basic chemical’s mild abrasive effects help scrub teeth stains and whiten the enamel. This teeth whitening remedy is backed by simple chemistry—baking soda creates an alkaline environment in the mouth, preventing the growth of bacteria and removing stains left by acidic food. This easy teeth whitening remedy can be adopted by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water and using this paste to brush one’s teeth. This should be used three times a week and not every day because it may have a corrosive effect on the enamel.   Use coconut oil Coconut oil is one of the easiest teeth whitening remedies.
Read More
6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023
Auto
03

6 Safest SUVs to Consider Buying in 2023

Are you looking for a safe, reliable SUV for your family? Look no further. Some of the best SUVs for 2023 come with advanced technology, superior driver assistance features, and safety equipment. They can protect the driver and occupants in a collision and lower the impact of the crash. From luxury to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone. So here are the safest SUVs you can find this year: Dodge Hornet The 2023 Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV that prioritizes safety and reliability. The Hornet has advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The interior of the Hornet has premium materials and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. You also get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Hornet is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 268-hp engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The SUV strikes a balance between power and efficiency and delivers good performance. You can look up “Local Dodge dealers near me” and find dealerships that sell the Hornet. You will be able to find great deals on new and used models at a local dealership.
Read More