Scientists have made a scary new discovery. Research from experts at the nonprofit Silent Spring Institute and the Harvard School of Public Health have found a possible link between chemicals most of us encounter in our daily lives and breast cancer. As Time reports, the study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives identified 17 chemicals that they think could lead to mammary tumors in humans.
Among the identified possible carcinogens are those found in dry cleaning products (halogenated organic solvents like methylene chloride), tobacco smoke (ethylene oxide), vehicle exhaust and gasoline (1,3-butadiene), hair and textile dyes (aromatic amines II), burnt food (acrylamide), and grilled meat (heterocyclic amines).
Though more research is needed before an established link between these chemicals and breast cancer can be confirmed, the study authors published seven tips to help us reduce our exposure to these harmful substances. In addition to limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, and keeping a healthy weight, the scientists suggest the following:
• Lessen exposure to fumes from gasoline or exhaust from diesel. Avoid idling at the gas station and using items like lawn mowers that emit fumes.
• Use a ventilation fan while cooking and avoid eating burned food.
• Find a dry cleaner that doesn't use solvents; ask for "wet cleaning."
• Use a solid carbon block filter to purify your drinking water.
• Avoid stain-resistant rugs, furniture, and fabric.
• Don't buy furniture with polyurethane foam or ask for foam that has not been treated with flame retardants.
• Keep your house clean and dust regularly to avoid outside chemicals accumulating in your home. Remove your shoes at the door, vacuum with a HEPA filter, and clean with a wet rag or mop.