Cancer is undoubtedly one of the most feared diseases. Its origins can be varied: immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or even our daily environment, which can play a key role. Heavy metals, ultraviolet rays, and various carcinogens can insidiously penetrate our bodies, causing cellular mutations and paving the way for cancer.
We tend to think all we have to do is close the door and wash our hands, but our homes can be full of carcinogens. Let’s take a look at six everyday items that contain harmful substances and that we should protect ourselves from.
Scented candles and air fresheners
Scented and air freshener candles are often used to improve the atmosphere of enclosed spaces such as bathrooms or to mask unpleasant odors, and contain pollutants such as limonene and phthalates.
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Although limonene is harmless in its pure form and is known for its lemony scent, it can transform into formaldehyde, a carcinogen, when released into the air. Formaldehyde can cause inflammatory reactions, hepatotoxicity, lung cancer, and breast cancer, and can affect pregnant women and fetuses with prolonged exposure.
Phthalates in scented candles prolong the fragrance’s diffusion, but they are endocrine disruptors. Excessive exposure can lead to hormonal imbalances, increase the risk of liver cancer, and affect pregnant women and fetuses.
Burning scented candles in the home, especially in the bedroom, can increase carbon monoxide levels, causing dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Use these products sparingly and remember to ventilate your home frequently.
Humidifier
Humidifiers have become essential for moistening overly dry air, both in summer and winter. However, questions remain about their safety, especially in toddlers’ bedrooms.
A study found that tap water and purified water used in humidifiers contain microorganisms after one night. Humidifiers promote bacterial growth due to the stagnant water they contain.
If you don’t properly maintain your humidifier, harmful bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Legionella can multiply and cause various respiratory illnesses. Wash your humidifier’s tank thoroughly every other day and allow it to dry completely when not in use.
Dry cleaning
Clothes that are difficult to wash are often sent to dry cleaners. However, dry cleaning relies on petroleum-derived substances such as benzene and ethylbenzene, which are harmful to health.
Perchloroethylene, the main substance used, has been found to be carcinogenic. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of esophageal, uterine, and bladder cancers. Inhaling these compounds can cause symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, memory problems, and skin rashes.
Remember to immediately remove the plastic from clothes straight from the dry cleaners and let them air out for 3 to 4 hours before putting them away in your closet.
Recipe
The receipts, which are printed on thermal paper, contain chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor.
Prolonged exposure to BPA can cause hormonal imbalances, early puberty, birth defects, and may be linked to uterine and breast cancer, as well as diabetes and obesity. Be careful with receipts. Keep the unprinted item and avoid storing it in your pockets or wallet.
The University of Missouri has shown that holding a receipt for about two seconds with creamy hands results in BPA absorption 80 times higher than the safety standard.
Hairbrushes
Hairbrushes can harbor bacteria in astonishing quantities. According to a study by the Korea Institute of Health and Society, they contain up to 300 times more bacteria than a toilet handle and 20 times more than a shoe organizer.
These bacteria can cause itching, dandruff, folliculitis, and even hair loss. Clean your brush or comb in warm, soapy water for at least 10 minutes, then wash it thoroughly with a toothbrush. Then, let it dry completely in the sun.
Remote controls
Television remote controls are a major source of bacteria. A study published in the Journal of Infection Prevention found that they harbor bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pneumococcus, and Enterococcus faecalis, which can cause skin infections, pneumonia, abdominal pain, and urinary tract infections.
Hotel room remote controls are particularly dirty. Clean your hotel room remote before using it and regularly clean your remote with a simple cloth or alcohol wipe.
While our homes are full of potential sources of harmful bacteria, a little vigilance and simple cleaning habits can significantly reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy environment also means taking care of your well-being.
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