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Can Plastic Cause Cancer? Evidence and Precautions
By Raveena M Prakash
Plastic has become an irreplaceable substance in today’s world. From packing food products to everyday items we use, it's often impossible to imagine a life without plastic products. However, as we all know, plastic is known for its convenience, while it also raises concerns over its impact on human health. Here’s one of the common and most alarming concerns people have been asking about: can plastic cause cancer?
In this blog, we’ll discover more about the evidence connected to plastic, chemicals causing cancer risks, and precautions we can take to minimize the potential risks!
Understanding plastic: chemistry behind this plastic
Plastics are basically synthetic materials made from polymers, which are large types of molecules made up of repeating units. Most plastics are derived from petroleum and natural gas, and depending on their specific type, they can be quite durable and flexible.
Here are some commonly used plastics include:
- Polyethylene (PE): These are used in bags, bottles, and toys.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Found in pipes, flooring, and medical devices
- Polycarbonate (PC): These are often used to make water bottles, eyeglasses, and CDs.
- Polystyrene (PS): These are commonly used in disposable cutlery, plates, and foam products.
While these plastic components won’t directly cause cancer, there are certain other chemicals also used in their production that can increase the risk of developing it. These can leach out over time, which has raised the concerns.
Cancer-linked chemicals in the plastic
There are several studies suggesting that there are several chemicals that have been found in plastics that are highly suspected or known to be carcinogenic or cancer-causing agents.
Here are some of the main components, including:
1. Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is a chemical that is generally used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These chemicals are commonly found in water bottles, food containers, and some medical containers. There are studies suggesting that BPA has been shown to interfere with hormone function. It is also classified as an endocrine disruptor.
Many experts suggest that a prolonged exposure to BPA might increase the risk of certain cancers, especially in breast cancer and prostate cancer, due to its ability to mimic estrogen and disrupt the endocrine system in the body.
Evidence:
Animal studies have shown that a high level of BPA exposure results in changes in reproductive organs and mammary glands, which may increase the cancer risk. However, human studies are less conclusive and limited.
2. Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are generally used to make plastics that are more flexible and durable in nature. These are commonly found in PVC products, including shower curtains, flooring, and even children’s toys. These chemicals are also known as endocrine disruptors and are also linked to the development of various health challenges, including reproductive problems and developmental issues such as delays in children. There are studies that suggest a possible link to cancers such as breast and liver cancer.
Evidence:
Ongoing research on phthalates suggests that in animals, a high exposure to phthalates might contribute to the development of hormone-related disorders.
While studies in humans are limited, some evidence suggests that long-term exposure to high levels of phthalates might increase the risk of developing certain cancers.
3. Dioxins
Dioxins are a group of highly toxic substances that can be produced when plastics are burned. These compounds are also known for their persistence in the environment, and they can accumulate in the food chain, which is primarily contaminated with animal products. These dioxins are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), meaning they are known to cause cancer in humans.
Evidence:
The long-term exposure of dioxins has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers including liver, lung, and skin cancer.
4. Styrene
Styrene is a type of chemical that is often used in the production of polystyrene. Styrene is a common plastic type often found in foam containers and cups. The long-term exposure to high levels of styrene has been generally linked to an increased risk of cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma.
Evidence:
Many studies have suggested that in humans and animals have shown that styrene, that can cause genetic mutations and affects the nervous system. It can potentially lead to an increased risk of cancers.
Precautions to reduce plastic-related cancer risk
There are several chemicals found in the plastics that are highly suspected or known to be carcinogenic, (cancer-causing agents).
Here are some of the most common chemicals found in the plastics, including:
1. Avoid the use of BPA- containing products
Always look for products that are labelled ‘BPA-free,’ especially if you are purchasing for the purpose of food and beverage storage. Also avoid plastic bottles that are marked with the recycling codes; these may include #3, #6 (PS), and #7 (polycarbonate), as they are more likely to contain BPA.
2. Limit the use of food storage in plastic containers
If possible, choose products that are made from glass, stainless steel, or other non-plastic alternatives for storing food and beverages. If you have plastic containers, avoid heating them in the microwave, as this can cause chemicals to leach into your food.
3. Avoid the use of soft plastic toys
For your babies and children, always select toys made from safer materials like wood, natural rubber, or BPA free plastics. Try to avoid plastic toys that contain phthalates and other chemicals, which are commonly found in soft, flexible plastics.
4. Recycle and avoid burning plastic
Try to recycle plastic products whenever possible. If you want to dispose of plastic waste, then avoid burning these products. It can release dioxins and other harmful chemicals into the air. Practice in activities that reduce plastic waste through recycling programs and sustainable product choices.
5. Always products with low chemical content
When purchasing any types of plastics, check for specific labeling that often indicates they are free from harmful substances, including phthalates, BPA, and PVC. Currently there are many manufacturer companies that are producing safer, chemical-free plastics to meet the growing demand for healthier products.
Consult Today
While the use of plastic products are not directly linked to the development of cancer. While there some types of particles contained in the plastics might increase the risk of developing cancer over time, especially over time. The most concerning substances from plastics are BPA, phthalates, dioxins, and styrene, which are often mixed in the foods and environments, and also have been linked to the development of various health concerns including cancer.
At Oncare, we offer premium-quality cancer treatments, including advanced cancer surgeries, at an affordable price range with an experienced cancer specialist consultation.
If you or any loved ones of yours are diagnosed with cancer then visit Oncare Cancer Center and book an appointment with our experienced cancer specialist today. Get an estimated cost of your cancer treatments today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoiding plastic containing BPA helps to avoid the risk of chemicals leaching into foods and drinks. It potentially leads to an endocrine disruption that interferes with the hormone function in the body.
Heating foods in containers that are not labeled as microwave safe can cause certain chemicals to leach into the food, which are often linked to health risks, including cancer.
There is no scientific evidence basis for dioxins being present in plastic water bottles, along with that Dioxins cannot be formed at freezing temperatures.
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