No evidence 'cocktail of everyday chemicals' causes cancer

ConclusionThis systematic review has identified 85 chemicals found in the environment that have the potential to affect different stages in the development of cancer. The researchers say this is intended as a starting point, so that future research can look at what effect these chemicals may have when there is exposure to more than one. This is a new approach to understanding the risk that various chemicals may have.The study did not find that these chemicals cause cancer, but that they have the potential to make changes to cells, which would then create particular characteristics of cancer, such as increased uncontrolled cell growth. The researchers acknowledge that the development of cancer is complex and that it is caused by a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental factors and exposures to toxins, such as through smoking. They hope this research can pave the way for further understanding of how these factors combine.A limitation of this study is that it was reliant on previous research and available literature. Many of the studies only provided short-term toxicity data and not long-term exposure to the chemicals. The study types were also of varying quality.This study will be of importance to regulators when considering how to assess the toxicity of chemicals and whether this needs to be done in combination, rather than just individually. From what we know, the most effective methods of reducing your risk of cancer are regular exercise, a healthy diet with n...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Cancer Genetics/stem cells Source Type: news