Deodorant and Breast Cancer: Is There Really a Link?

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breast-cancer-ribbonFor many years already, there has been a heated debate on whether deodorant or antiperspirant usage may cause breast cancer. Some groups are concerned that deodorants and antiperspirants contain cancer-causing chemicals that can be absorbed into the body on contact. On the other hand, recent medical research suggests that discontinuing antiperspirant or deodorant usage will not necessarily reduce one’s risk of developing breast cancer. What more do we know in this heated debate?

Several Cancer Societies Weigh In

The American Cancer Society points to a study in 2002 of 1,606 women, 813 of whom had breast cancer. This study found no link between deodorant usage and breast cancer incidences. The National Cancer Institute agreed, stating that studies of any possible link between deodorant usage and breast cancer have proved inconclusive. The Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation has not found any links between deodorant usage and breast cancer either. In a different twist, BreastCancer.org acknowledges society’s concern about deodorants causing breast cancer; however, they point out that the chemicals from deodorants and many other personal care products are unlikely to cause breast cancer. Instead of worrying about their deodorant, women concerned about breast cancer can take other steps to lower their risks.

Don’t Stop Using Deodorant – Follow These Guidelines Instead

As stated above by various cancer societies, discontinuing deodorant usage will not necessarily lower a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. Women should be aware that anything altering their hormone levels (such as obesity or hormone replacement therapy) can increase their risk of breast cancer. To lower their risk of breast cancer, women should minimize the amount of alcohol they drink, exercise frequently, know how to identify changes in the way their breasts look or feel, and get regular mammograms and breast exams. These steps will be more effective in lower one’s risk of breast cancer, while still allowing them to use deodorant. Also, there is a relationship between breast cancer and skin cancer. Women with breast cancer are at an elevated risk of developing melanoma, the most fatal form of skin cancer. As dermatologists, what can we do for you?

When Was Your Last Skin Cancer Screening? Call Us Today!

Skin cancer affects millions of men and women each year as well. Regardless of whether or not you have or are at risk of developing breast cancer, yearly skin cancer screenings are necessary. If you have not gone for your yearly skin cancer screening, contact us today to schedule a consultation. At Advanced Dermatology, PC, our board-certified dermatologists (male and female) are experts at diagnosing and treating skin cancer and other concerns of the skin, hair and nails. In the event of skin cancer, we offer the latest treatment methods, including Mohs surgery by our board-certified Mohs surgeons. Our conveniently located offices welcome patients from Queens (Bayside, Flushing), Long Island – Nassau/Suffolk (Roslyn Heights, West Islip, Commack, East Setauket), New York City (Upper West Side, Upper East Side), Brooklyn (Park Slope) Westchester County (Ossining, Briarcliff Manor), Bergen County, NJ, Union County, NJ, and all surrounding areas.

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