Deodorants may increase risk of breast cancer

New research says that antiperspirant deodorants may lead to breast cancer.

9 March 2006
MUMBAI, INDIA

According to new research, using antiperspirant deodorants may increase risks of breast cancer in women. Dr. Philippa D. Darby of the University of Reading in the UK has conducted research showing that aluminum salts (present in the product), which exert estrogen-like effects, promote the growth of breast cancer cells in the laboratory.

These salts may disrupt the normal hormonal signaling within the breast. In fact, several cosmetics contain estrogen-mimicking inorganic compounds, indicating a different kind of battle for the human body. Until now it was believed that only organic substances can exert estrogen-like effects.

Deodorants are typically sprayed in the underarm region, close to the breast, and in addition often used after shaving, facilitating the entry of aluminum salts into the blood stream. Some studies indicate that these salts can enter underarm skin, even when it is unbroken.

Antiperspirants widely use aluminium chloride, aluminium chlorohydrate, and aluminium-zirconium compounds. These complexes react with the electrolytes in the sweat to form a gel plug in the duct of the sweat gland which prevent the gland from excreting liquid. Blockage of large number of sweat glands reduces the amount of sweat produced.

Dr.Darby suggests that it is better to cut down or reduce antiperspirant usage. She herself has stopped using them ten years ago.