Do antiperspirants and deodorants
cause breast cancer?

You decide...

Studies in recent years have highlighted a possible link between the aluminium and parabens used in antiperspirants and deodorants and breast cancer in women. Some scientists believe this link is significant enough to warrant further research; others dismiss it. Confused? Read on and make up your own mind...

Why the link with breast cancer?
A recent Keele University study confirmed that aluminium salts can get into the breast tissue through the use of underarm products, and they are more concentrated in the area of the breast where cancer is proven to be more likely to develop - the upper outer quadrant, where deodorants are applied. Scientists have suggested that aluminium can bind to oestrogen receptors in a woman's cells, potentially damaging the cell's DNA and triggering abnormal growth behaviour.

Parabens have been shown to mimic the action of the female hormone oestrogen, which drives the growth of tumours in many breast cancers.

To date there have been no studies that definitively prove that the aluminium and parabens in antiperspirants and deodorants can cause breast cancer. However, expert opinion is divided over whether the limited research that has been carried out is sufficient for women to make an informed decision.

Some scientists believe more research is needed
A study in 2004 found parabens in 18 out of 20 samples taken from human breast tumors. This study didn't prove that parabens cause breast cancer, or that the parabens came from antiperspirants, and the authors of the study didn't analyse healthy breast tissue or tissue from other areas of the body. Critics of the study question its validity for those reasons, but other scientists believe that these initial results are significant and further research is needed.

What do scientists on the opposite side of the debate say?
A study carried out in 2002 and published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined the deodorant or antiperspirant use and underarm shaving habits of 813 women with breast cancer and 793 women with no history of the disease. The study found no evidence of a link between using deodorants or antiperspirants - alone or together with underarm shaving - and breast cancer risk.

What do the experts recommend women should do?
Many women are confused as to what to do for the best when it comes to using antiperspirants -conflicting research and compelling opinion from both sides of the debate means the decision is far from clear-cut.

Leading breast cancer specialist Dr Robert Thomas says this, 'I'm very much aware there is no clear proof antiperspirants or deodorants cause cancer, but with one in nine women developing the disease, it seems sensible to be cautious and not take unnecessary risks... Giving up using deodorant could be as effective in reducing cancer risk as a diet rich in disease-preventing antioxidants.'

However, the majority of the leading breast cancer charities agree that women shouldn't panic and state that, until there is evidence to the contrary, it's safe to continue using antiperspirants.

Introducing Bionsen deodorant - aluminium and paraben free
At Bionsen we believe women should be empowered to make an informed choice about their health. If you'd rather not risk yours until further research has been carried out, we can offer you an aluminium and paraben free alternative to your regular antiperspirant.

An effective, natural alternative

• Formulated using vital minerals found in the volcanic spas of Japan (known as 'Onsen'), long-prized for their ability to nourish the skin and keep it healthy
• Aluminium and paraben-free
• Effectively neutralises the bacteria
responsible for bad odours, all day long
• Allows the skin to breathe and sweat, an essential natural cooling and detoxifying process
• Hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, alcohol-free formula ideal for even the most sensitive skin
• Fresh, clean long-lasting fragrance
• Available as a roll-on, solid deodorant stick, aerosol or pump spray.

For more information visit www.bodyhealthdebate.co.uk