Hair Relaxer Chemicals Now Linked to Breast Cancer
There is growing evidence linking hair relaxers and breast cancer, with researchers now warning that these chemicals may be contributing to the development of this disease.
Studies have found that hair relaxers contain a number of hazardous chemicals, including formaldehyde and parabens, both of which have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. These chemicals are absorbed into the body through the scalp, and can have damaging effects on breast tissue over time.
Given these risks, it is important for women to be aware of the potential dangers of hair relaxers, and to take steps to minimize their exposure. This may include using natural alternatives, such as henna or coconut oil, rather than chemical-based products. For those who have already used these products and have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important that they take steps to protect their legal rights.
Increased Use of Hair Relaxers Shown to Increase Risk of Cancer
If you use hair relaxers, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with these chemicals, and consider alternative methods of straightening your hair. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors for breast cancer, and take steps to protect your health and reduce your risk.
The Boston University’s Black Woman Study, published in 2021, revealed that women using hair products that contained the chemical lye at least 7 times over a 15-year time period had an increased risk of breast cancer – a 30% percent greater risk of a cancer diagnosis.
Boston University observed 59,000 black women over the course of twenty-five years in order to identify breast cancer risk factors.
The researchers at Boston University deem lye to be a major chemical threat factor for developing breast cancer. Although more research is needed, black women have a much lower survival rate and tend to face types of breast cancer that are more aggressive than those faced by white women. Before this study, other research done on the correlation between hair straightening chemicals and breast cancer, but this study demonstrated some of the clearest connections, supported by substantial data.
Frequent Users of Hair Relaxers Have the Greatest Risk of Being Diagnosed with Cancer
Women who frequently use chemical hair straighteners are at a greater risk of developing uterine cancer, as opposed to those who never use these products. This includes the risk of developing uterine cancer.
Women who used chemical hair relaxers four or more times in the past year were found to be at an increased risk of uterine cancer. It should be noted that uterine cancer is not common. While the percentage of women with it is in the single digits, that number is still highly elevated from the rest of the population. As the data shows, there appears to be a strong correlation between breast cancer and hair relaxers.
Users Also Saw Increased Risk of Uterine Cancer
Participants who used hair straighteners saw more than double the number of cases of uterine cancer compared to those who never used these products. The number of women who suffered uterine cancer each year due to these hair relaxer products could number in the thousands or more.
Why Does Chemical Hair Straightener Increase Breast Cancer Risk?
The studies have looked at the chemicals used in the products, many of which are known carcinogens. Many may use more and harsher chemicals than are actually required to relax and straighten hair. Because of this aggressive use of chemicals, millions of women are put at unnecessary risk each and every year.
Speak with Our Experienced Lawyers to Learn Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer and have used hair relaxers in the past, it is important to speak with an experienced lawyer right away. These products may have placed you at an increased risk for breast cancer without your knowledge or consent, and our lawyers can help ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
Contact us today for a private and no-obligation consultation to learn more about your rights and legal options. Call us today at (800) 403-6191.