March 1st, 2006

Breast Cancer – Possible increased risk by using Antiperspirant Deodorant

Aluminum free deodorant

Deodorants that contain aluminum salts may increase a woman’s risk of getting breast cancer. Dr. Philippa Darbre from the University of Reading believes that more research should be conducted to further determine that it actually causes cancer.

The reason why scientists believe that the aluminum salts found in deodorants is harmful is because of the ability to mimic the oestrogen hormone in the body. If the deodorant can break through the skin it could become possible for the aluminum salts to enter the body. A recent article published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology believes that research would be important to determine if the deodorant indeed increases the risk of breast cancer.

Scientists have found that there are many compounds found in the environment which either mimic or interfere with oestrogen. Normal compounds of these are usually complex molecules that are found in plants, detergents, pesticides, and plastics. Scientists are discovering that there is an assortment of simple metal ions. This includes Aluminum and cadmium which also is able to bind to the body’s oestrogetn-receptors.

The problem that may be made worst with antiperspirants is that the armpits are shaved and immediately following a high concentration of this is applied to the area. If the skin is damaged it would make it easier for the aluminum to enter the skin.

Cadmium is the other simple metal. When a person smokes tobacco it causes an increase of cadmium to enter into the body. Scientists have shown that cadmium can collect in breast tissue. They also believe that there might be a link between breast cancer and smoking.