It is relatively common for products to contain carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals). Two of the most common carcinogens are parabens and phthalates. These chemicals are part of a category known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals can cause quite a few different health problems, not just cancer. Revelations of EDCs in a certain product causing cancer and other health problems are frequently published. For example, new research has recently been published that links parabens and phthalates in chemical hair straighteners to uterine cancer.

Parabens and phthalates are found in many products

Parabens and phthalates are found in a wide range of products. Phthalates can even be found in products intended for children. These chemicals can also be found in plastic food storage containers. Both phthalates and parabens are commonly found in sunscreen and surgical tubing.

The usage of EDCs in these products can certainly cause health problems. However, perhaps the biggest risk posed by parabens and phthalates is their inclusion in various beauty products. This is because people often use large quantities of beauty products on a daily basis. This, in turn, can expose you to high levels of EDCs over a long period of time. The risk of adverse health effects is much higher in this situation.

Parabens and phthalates are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals

It’s important to understand why parabens and phthalates cause health problems. These chemicals disrupt the endocrine system, which is the bodily system that produces, controls, and stores various hormones. The endocrine system directly or indirectly affects many bodily functions. It is especially closely linked with the reproductive systems of both men and women.

These chemicals can cause numerous health problems

EDCs like parabens and phthalates can cause a wide range of different health problems. It is very common for EDCs to cause fertility problems in both men and women. These chemicals can also cause abnormal puberty, nervous system problems, metabolic disorders, immune disorders, and neurological disorders. Perhaps the most dangerous health condition caused by EDCs like parabens and phthalates, however, is cancer.

EDCs have been linked with various types of cancer. Prostate cancer and breast cancer can be caused by exposure to EDCs. Uterine cancer also may be caused by EDC exposure.

Parabens and phthalates have been linked to uterine cancer

A study from the National Institutes of Health has shown that chemical hair straighteners may increase the risk of uterine cancer. Women that frequently use chemical hair straighteners were found to have much higher rates of uterine cancer than those that do not. Many chemical hair straighteners contain EDCs which are known to cause cancer, such as parabens and phthalates. This revelation has led to a chemical hair straightener lawsuit.

Avoiding parabens and phthalates

It can be difficult to avoid parabens and phthalates because they are found in so many products. However, many manufacturers are now making products that exclude these chemicals. It’s a good idea to look for products that are labeled both “paraben-free” and “phthalate-free.”