Many of us have heard about the supposed link between aluminum deodorants and antiperspirants and breast cancer. While studies have continued to show mixed results in their findings, one should consider what has been documented. The National Cancer Institute published an article outlining its stance on the matter:
Aluminum-based compounds are used as the active ingredient in antiperspirants. These compounds form a temporary plug within the sweat duct that stops the flow of sweat to the skin’s surface. Some research suggests that aluminum-based compounds, which are applied frequently and left on the skin near the breast, may be absorbed by the skin and cause estrogen-like (hormonal) effects (3). Because estrogen has the ability to promote the growth of breast cancer cells, some scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer (3).
Some research has focused on parabens, which are preservatives used in some deodorants and antiperspirants that have been shown to mimic the activity of estrogen in the body’s cells (4). Although parabens are used in many cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical products, according to the FDA, most major brands of deodorants and antiperspirants in the United States do not currently contain parabens. Consumers can look at the ingredient label to determine if a deodorant or antiperspirant contains parabens. Parabens are usually easy to identify by name, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, or benzylparaben. The National Library of Medicine’s Household Products Database also has information about the ingredients used in most major brands of deodorants and antiperspirants.
The belief that parabens build up in breast tissue was supported by a 2004 study, which found parabens in 18 of 20 samples of tissue from human breast tumors (5). However, this study did not prove that parabens cause breast tumors (4). The authors of this study did not analyze healthy breast tissue or tissues from other areas of the body and did not demonstrate that parabens are found only in cancerous breast tissue (5). Furthermore, this research did not identify the source of the parabens and cannot establish that the buildup of parabens is due to the use of deodorants or antiperspirants.
More research is needed to specifically examine whether the use of deodorants or antiperspirants can cause the buildup of parabens and aluminum-based compounds in breast tissue. Additional research is also necessary to determine whether these chemicals can either alter the DNA in some cells or cause other breast cell changes that may lead to the development of breast cancer…*
*see original article for citations
While it is clear that further research needs to be conducted on the matter, many people would prefer to avoid deodorants with said chemicals. So, in a society that discriminates against people based on their looks and hygiene, how do we avoid smelling bad without the traditional deodorizers? Well, natural remedies exist:
And for the ultra-organic, simply try using a lime under your pits!
And of course, one can choose to abstain from masking their natural scent all together. I propose a hefty dose of kudos to those who go au natural, for despite the stigma of body odor, it is completely healthy and a natural expression of the human body.
We’re all concerned with eradicating breast cancer, and our continued dedication to scientific medical research and prevention education will surely take us there.
