increased cancer risk Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Hair Dye WARNING: Undeniable Link Between Hair Dye Chemicals & Cancer

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:04:18 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Surprisingly, 75 percent of people in the U.S., Japan, and Europe dye their hair regularly. Gray hair can make people look prematurely old, and hair color is used to preserve that more youthful appearance. Sometimes, people just want a change from their natural hair color, and dyeing it can help them make a ‘fashion statement.’ In truth, hair coloring is an ancient practice. However, in the past, people used natural substances such as henna and other pigments found in plants, soil, and clay. Today, most of the store-bought hair color options are made with harsh, toxic chemicals that can pose a serious health risk when used regularly over time. The dangers of hair color aren’t highly publicized Some of the risks and side effects of the chemicals found in hair dyes include cancers of the kidney, bladder, and breast, as well as blood-based cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. But don’t expect your local salon to post any warning signs soon – for obvious reasons. The “official word” on hair color products that contain harsh chemicals is far from cautionary. However, one of the common chemicals used, called P-phenylenediamine (PPD), is documented as causing side effects like asthma, gastritis, severe dermatitis, eye irritation, vertigo, tremors, convulsions, kidney failure, and coma in those who are exposed to it. Now, a new study adds to growing concerns by revealing that another synthetic hair dye pigment, 4-Chloro-orthophenylenediamine (4-Cl-OPD), can cause significant DNA damage when exposed to high nitric oxide levels. Researchers found that this damage leads to structural changes in DNA, triggering immune system reactions in those with prolonged hair dye use. The study even linked these immune responses to hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting that chronic hair dye exposure could contribute to a pro-inflammatory, cancer-promoting environment. Some hair color products contain thousands of chemical compounds However, PPD and 4-Cl-OPD aren’t the only risks. Some hair color products contain as many as 5,000 chemicals, including lead acetate and ammonia. The chemicals in hair color products also interact with the substances in human hair to produce harmful effects. Hair colors come in temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent solutions. However, 80 percent of the market comprises permanent colors containing agents like couplers and intermediates that react with hydrogen peroxide. While the worst hair color product ingredients were banned in the 1970s, many products still contain dangerous substances. Research confirms the health hazards of hair color products Numerous studies have substantiated these hair color risks. A 1994 National Cancer Institute report covered the dangers of dark hair dyes used over extended periods. They were found to raise the risk of cancers like multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Another study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that hairdressers who worked regularly with these products had an increased risk of bladder cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma. The scalp has a rich blood supply, making it easy for the toxic chemicals in hair dyes to soak into the skin. During the 30 minutes, hair dyes remain in contact with the scalp and can easily enter the blood supply. Fortunately, there is a better way. Avoid the cancer risk: Consider safer, non-toxic alternatives Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to these toxic products. Hairprint is a natural hair color brand developed by award-winning chemist John Warner. Instead of harsh chemicals, it contains non-toxic, plant-based, food-grade pigments and minerals. Best of all, Hairprint has a restorative effect on hair, enriching it and restoring the shine and luster that can be lost as hair ages. Hairprint products are also hypoallergenic and free of odor. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Beatcancer.org NIH.gov Oxfordjournals.org To read the original article click here.

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Cancer Alert: Insidious Chemical Linked to Increased Prostate Cancer Risk

The AHA! Team — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:11:33 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. More than 299,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 2024 alone. A new study published in Nutrients reveals environmental endocrine disruptors, including BPA (Bisphenol A) chemicals, are tied to a heightened risk of prostate cancer. Elevated BPA levels have a causal relationship with a higher incidence of prostate cancer The study found that higher exposure to BPA chemicals in men was associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Researchers utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2003 and 2012 and analyzed several factors, including BPA levels, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration, medical history, and sociodemographic information. Sociodemographic data considered in the study included: Body mass index (BMI) Poverty income ratio (PIR) Race and ethnicity Smoking status Cholesterol levels Statistical analysis revealed a positive correlation between BPA exposure and prostate cancer risk. This is likely due to BPA’s interaction with estrogen receptor-α, a hormone expressed in the prostate gland, which may play a role in the development of prostate cancer. Defining prostate cancer risk through quantification According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a PSA level of 4 ng/mL is considered a threshold for prostate cancer risk. Levels below 4 ng/mL are associated with low cancer risk, while readings above 4 ng/mL indicate a higher risk. From the nearly 54,000 participants in NHANES, 2,738 men met the study’s inclusion criteria. The analysis identified a correlation between PSA and BPA levels, showing that for each unit increase in BPA concentration, there was a 2.760 ng/mL rise in PSA. Further data showed that men classified as high-risk for prostate cancer had a 42.5% to 72% increased likelihood of developing the disease with each additional unit of BPA concentration. A single unit increase in urinary BPA levels corresponded to a 2.760 ng/mL spike in PSA, reinforcing the connection between BPA exposure and elevated PSA levels, which may lead to the development of prostate cancer. Additional analysis of a subgroup revealed that individuals aged 75 and older had an even higher risk. Those with hypertension also showed an increased risk of prostate cancer, which escalated alongside rising BPA concentrations. The positive association between BPA and PSA levels has a key cutoff point Research has identified a significant inflection point in the relationship between BPA concentration and PSA levels at 4.46 ng/mL. The positive correlation between BPA exposure and PSA levels is notably stronger at this specific threshold, particularly in older American males. This cutoff point marks a critical value where the risk of elevated PSA, and potentially prostate cancer, becomes more pronounced with increasing BPA levels. This finding is important because previous studies may have overlooked such specific benchmarks. Medical professionals will likely adopt the 4.46 ng/mL cutoff as a valuable reference for prostate cancer screenings. This could improve early detection, especially as BPA exposure becomes a recognized factor in prostate cancer risk. Solutions to reduce your BPA exposure BPA (Bisphenol A) is widely present in many everyday products, making it impossible to avoid them completely. However, there are effective ways to significantly reduce your exposure to this harmful chemical, particularly for men concerned about the link between BPA and prostate health. 1. Minimize plastic use Reduce or eliminate your use of plastic products, especially those that come into contact with food. BPA is commonly found in plastic containers, water bottles, and packaging materials. Opt for BPA-free or non-plastic alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, or ceramic. 2. Transfer food to non-plastic containers After shopping, transfer foods from plastic or canned packaging into non-plastic containers. Cans often have BPA in their lining, so moving food to safer storage options, like glass containers, reduces potential BPA leaching. 3. Avoid heating food in plastic Never microwave or heat up a food in plastic containers, as heat can cause BPA to leach into the food. Instead, use alternative containers like glass or ceramic. Plus, as a ‘side note,’ don’t use a microwave – which damages the quality of your food. 4. Limit canned foods BPA is often used in the lining of canned foods, so try to reduce the consumption of canned goods. Choose fresh or frozen foods whenever possible, and look for brands with BPA-free packaging. 5. Use BPA-free water bottles and tableware Replace plastic water bottles with BPA-free versions, or use stainless steel or glass bottles. Similarly, switch to BPA-free plates and utensils to further limit exposure. 6. Say no to sales receipts Many thermal paper receipts contain BPA, which can be absorbed through the skin. If possible, decline printed receipts or use digital receipts as an alternative. 7. Be mindful of other sources BPA is also found in protective eyewear, dental sealants, and personal care products. Be conscious of the materials you come into contact with and seek BPA-free alternatives where applicable. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your exposure to BPA and minimize the health risks associated with these endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Sources for this article include: MDPI.com News-medical.net Zerocancer.org To read the original article click here.

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Junk Food Warning: Eating Processed Food Does ‘Crazy’ Things to Your Cancer Risk

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:08:06 +0000

Sharon Thomas via NaturalHealth365 – NEW research: Every 10% increase in calories from junk food triggers a ‘CRAZY’ effect on cancer risk Most people “get it” that eating candy and highly processed food is bad for us. But while most people try to avoid junk food because it will make them fat, many still fail to realize the most serious problem with eating these “treats.” In a nutshell (no pun intended), the alarming results of a recent study clearly link junk food eating habits with a substantial increase in cancer risk. NEW research: Every 10% increase in calories from junk food triggers a ‘CRAZY’ effect on cancer risk And, just to be clear, it’s ‘crazy’ because once you realize that a bad habit (substantially) increases the risk of cancer and you continue to do it … that’s crazy. According to most holistic physicians, 95% of all cancer diagnoses are related to environment and lifestyle. Even the American Institute for Cancer Research’s more conservative estimate of one-third is still startling. What’s the major takeaway from this statement? A cancer diagnosis is avoidable with proper lifestyle changes. And of all the lifestyle changes you could make, avoiding processed food is one of the most important. Consider data from a French prospective cohort study called NutriNet-Santé, which spanned eight years and involved 104,980 subjects. By analyzing daily meal logs, researchers were able to determine an important correlation: If just 10% of a person’s total daily calories came from “ultra-processed” foods, then they had a 12% INCREASED risk for overall cancer. Subsequent 10% increments in junk food calories increased their cancer risk by the same degree! The researchers suggest several possible reasons why. First, junk food has more refined sugar, less fiber, and fewer vitamins and minerals than whole and minimally processed foods, which can disrupt the healthy gut microbiota and promote inflammation. Second, chemicals, preservatives, fillers, and other ingredients (as well as their processing, e.g., the application of pesticides) are carcinogenic in their own right. The research is clear: repeatedly eating these foods can lead to serious health complications over time – not the least of which is packing on the pounds. Best junk food advice: Avoid the heavily processed foods that can make you sick It’s not just candy and cakes which increase your cancer risk. Here’s an extensive list of the foods which the researchers considered “ultra-processed:” “[M]ass produced packaged breads and buns; sweet or savory packaged snacks; industrialized confectionery and desserts; sodas and sweetened drinks; meat balls, poultry and fish nuggets, and other reconstituted meat products transformed with addition of preservatives other than salt (for example, nitrites); instant noodles and soups; frozen or shelf stable ready meals; and other food products made mostly or entirely from sugar, oils and fats, and other substances not commonly used in culinary preparations such as hydrogenated oils, modified starches, and protein isolates. Industrial processes notably include hydrogenation, hydrolysis, extruding, moulding, reshaping, and pre-processing by frying. Flavoring agents, colors, emulsifiers, humectants, non-sugar sweeteners, and other cosmetic additives are often added to these products to imitate sensorial properties of unprocessed or minimally processed foods and their culinary preparations or to disguise undesirable qualities of the final product.” Want a few simple hacks to help you make smarter choices at the grocery store? Keep these tips in mind: Opt for organic, whole, real food in its natural state whenever possible. These are usually found along the perimeters of the grocery store. If it has a super long shelf life and/or is found in the middle aisles of the grocery store, be suspicious. If it contains ingredients you can’t read, be suspicious. As the journalist Michael Pollan suggests, avoid “food-like substances.” Lastly, realize that food that has been heavily manufactured, tinkered with, and ultra-processed is virtually addictive by design. Keep this in mind: the largest food producers in the world want you to crave sugary foods because they’re cheap, accessible, and something you’ll want to buy again and again! Fortunately, you and your family can train yourself to break the cycle: skip the processed garbage, learn how to cook simple (healthy) meals, and eat as close to nature (organic) as possible. Even if you change just one meal at a time, start somewhere. Editor’s note: I know most of our NaturalHealth365 readers already appreciate much of what this article says. Yet, the main point is to provide a ‘tool’ for you to share with someone else who needs to read this message. Keep in mind: it’s NOT about ‘convincing’ anyone to do anything. But, I do believe it’s our responsibility to share valuable information with others and let them decide. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NaturalMedicineJournal.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Toxic PFAS Detected: Band-Aid and Other Brands Under Scrutiny

The AHA! Team — Thu, 09 May 2024 20:06:31 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Prepare for an eye-opening insight into the world of first aid. The very bandages we depend on to heal wounds may harbor a concerning (toxic) secret. Recent investigations have brought Band-Aid and other leading brands under scrutiny, revealing the presence of toxic PFAS chemicals. PFAS, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been used for decades in commercial products for their stain-resistant, oil-resistant, grease-resistant, and water-resistant properties. These synthetic compounds, which have been present in consumer products since the 1950s, raise significant questions about potential health implications. PFAS are in more than two dozen commonly used bandages The bandage analysis was conducted at a lab certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the findings, 26 out of 40 tested bandages showed organic fluorine levels above 10 parts per million (ppm). Furthermore, among bandages marketed for black and brown skin tones, 63% exhibited traces of PFAS “forever chemicals,” with 10 out of 16 tested bandages surpassing the 10 ppm threshold. The detected ranges of organic fluorine, serving as an indicator for PFAS, varied from 11 ppm to 328 ppm. Bandages containing PFAS are problematic because they are placed on top of open wounds, which allows for direct entry into the bloodstream. However, bandage makers have not taken steps to remove PFAS from bandages in response to calls for materials without PFAS. Organic fluorine is a threat to the body’s immune system The presence of organic fluorine in the referenced bandages signals the existence of “forever chemicals,” scientifically proven to diminish immune system function and impair cognitive abilities. Furthermore, these chemicals disrupt the body’s endocrine system, leading to unhealthy hormonal responses, and are linked to reduced fertility and increased cancer risk. Researchers from North Carolina State University’s Center for Environmental & Health Effects of PFAS highlight fluoropolymers as a common type of PFAS contributing to bandage toxicity. PFAS can also be found in other consumer products such as dental floss, fast food packaging, deodorant, and contact lenses. Notably, 3M, the manufacturer of Sticky Notes, has announced plans to discontinue the use of PFAS in its products by the end of next year. Scientists are not completely clear as to whether topical exposure to PFAS is at the same risk level as other forms of exposure. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has determined topical PFAS exposure is as dangerous as ingestion through water or food. According to Mamavation, PFAS have been found in popular bandages such as the aforementioned Band-Aid and those made by CVS Health and Equate. However, there are some bandages on the market, including those made by Tru Colour and 3M, that do not contain organic fluorine. Of the 18 brands analyzed, 65% contained harmful chemicals. Aside from the aforementioned Band-Aid brand bandages, the following brands’ bandages also contain organic fluorine: Equate First Honey Manuka CVS Health Care Science Curad Assorted Rite Aid First UP & UP Solimo (Amazon) Bypass the bandage brands listed above in favor of safer and healthier brands, including: Dry See Thin Dealmed Flexible Browndages Rite Aid Smart-Flex Sterile bandages Each of these safer bandages has fewer than 100 ppm of organic fluorine, meaning they pose minimal threat to human health. The cream of the crop with zero organic fluorine includes 3M Micropore, FEBU organic bamboo, Tru Colour, Trutone, Welly, and Patch Bamboo. Sources for this article include: Childrenshealthdefense.org Mamavation.com To read the original article click here.

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Artificial Sweeteners May Not Be Safe Sugar Alternatives

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 07:00:43 +0000

PLOS via Newswise – Artificial sweeteners reduce added sugar content and corresponding calories while maintaining sweetness. A study publishing March 24th in PLOS Medicine by Charlotte Debras and Mathilde Touvier at the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research (Inserm) and Sorbonne Paris Nord University, France and colleagues suggests that some artificial sweeteners are associated with increased cancer risk. Many food products and beverages containing artificial sweeteners are consumed by millions of people daily. However, the safety of these additives has been a subject of debate. To evaluate the potential carcinogenicity of artificial sweeteners, researchers analyzed data from 102,865 French adults participating in the NutriNet-Santé study. The NutriNet-Santé study is an ongoing web-based cohort initiated in 2009 by the Nutritional Epidemiology Research Team (EREN). Participants enroll voluntarily and self-report medical history, sociodemographic, diet, lifestyle, and health data. Researchers gathered data concerning artificial sweetener intake from 24-hour dietary records. After collecting cancer diagnosis information during follow-up, the researchers conducted statistical analyses to investigate the associations between artificial sweetener intakes and cancer risk. They also adjusted for a range of variables including age, sex, education, physical activity, smoking, body mass index, height, weight-gain during follow-up, diabetes, family history of cancer, as well as baseline intakes of energy, alcohol, sodium, saturated fatty acids, fiber, sugar, whole-grain foods, and dairy products. The researchers found that enrollees consuming larger quantities of artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame and acesulfame-K, had higher risk of overall cancer compared to non-consumers (hazard ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 1.03 to 1.25). Higher risks were observed for breast cancer and obesity-related cancers. The study had several important limitations; dietary intakes are self-reported. Selection bias may also have been a factor, as participants were more likely to be women, to have higher educational levels, and to exhibit health-conscious behaviors. The observational nature of the study also means that residual confounding is possible and reverse causality cannot be ruled out. Additional research will be required to confirm the findings and clarify the underlying mechanisms. According to the authors, “Our findings do not support the use of artificial sweeteners as safe alternatives for sugar in foods or beverages and provide important and novel information to address the controversies about their potential adverse health effects. While these results need to be replicated in other large-scale cohorts and underlying mechanisms clarified by experimental studies, they provide important and novel insights for the ongoing re-evaluation of food additive sweeteners by the European Food Safety Authority and other health agencies globally”. Debras adds, “Results from the NutriNet-Santé cohort (n=102,865) suggest that artificial sweeteners found in many food and beverage brands worldwide may be associated with increased cancer risk, in line with several experimental in vivo / in vitro studies. These findings provide novel information for the re-evaluation of these food additives by health agencies.” To read the original article click here.

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