A new study has found links to breast cancer and low doses of a common chemical found in shampoos, sun creams, soap and other beauty products.
Previous studies have linked parabens with the disease, but the latest research suggests much smaller amounts could also be dangerous.
The chemical preservative is found in many lotions and body creams, including sun cream.
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Different research centres across the US found that exposure to these chemicals can be harmful, particularly at puberty and during pregna ncy.
Parabens encourage the production of oestrogen, which mimics the naturally occurring hormone oestradiol. Both oestradiol and oestrogens have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive problems, the Mirror reports.
Lead investigator Dale Leitman, a gynaecologist and molecular biologist, said: “Although parabens are known to mimic the growth effects of oestrogens on breast cancer cells, some consider their effect too weak to cause harm.
“But this might not be true when parabens are combined with other agents that regulate cell growth.”
The study examined multiple hormone-mimicking chemicals that people come in to contact with daily and how they might interact.
Co-author Chris Vulpe said: “While this study focused on parabens, it’s also possible that the potency of other oestrogen mimics have been underestimated by current testing approaches.”
Catherine Priestley, Clinical Nurse Specialist at Breast Cancer Care, said: “This is incredibly early research. Extensive further study is needed to establish a full understanding of the link between parabens and breast cancer risk.
“It is important for women to remember that while making changes to your lifestyle may help to reduce your risk, they can’t prevent breast cancer completely.
“The two main risk factors for breast cancer remain out of our control: being female and getting older.”
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