Chemicals found in common household goods can mimic oestrogen and add to risk of breast and testicular cancer
By Lucy Quinton
Experts fear a chemical found in everyday products such as cosmetics, electrical goods and plastics, could be one of the main triggers of breast cancer.
According to research undertaken by London University, hormone-disrupting chemicals, commonly referred to as EDCs, could be behind as many as 50% of new breast cancer cases.
The findings showed that less than half of the new breast cancer cases diagnosed can be explained by lifestyle factors and genetics, suggesting the other increases may have been brought on by EDCs.
Furthermore, it suggested these chemicals could also be behind the rise in testicular cancer, genital malformation and earlier puberty.
Commenting on the findings, Andreas Kortenkamp, head of the centre of toxicology from the school of pharmacy at London University and author of the study, said: "It is well known that women with higher lifetime exposure to oestrogen are at a greater risk of breast cancer, so it is highly plausible that chemicals that mimic oestrogen can add to this risk."
The paper stated there is a need for strong legislation to control chemicals possessing hormone-disrupting properties that are used in everyday products, such as baby bottles, plastics and cosmetics.
Graham Spittles, managing director at Otter Risk Solutions, said the findings would not have an immediate effect on life offices' underwriting procedure.
He said: "They will have noted these comments and statements but I believe it is too early for any life company to change its underwriting philosophy in respect of breast or other cancers. Further consideration will be given in due course, but as yet I doubt if the end result will be a change in premium structures."
He added: "Most underwriters and chief medical officers keep up to date with the various developments in medical science and any implications these developments may have in relation to risk assessment."
The publication of the findings comes as political parties, including the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives attempt to add weight to the campaign for the substitution of hazardous chemicals. The Government has not yet stated its position.
More than 1,000 British women die of breast cancer every month.
