Although science and technology have evolved a tenfold since the 20th century, health problems are still on the rise. One of the many reasons why health risks are rising is the constant exposure to harmful materials. As a result, cancer has become an everyday phenomena, afflicting millions of people around the nation and world.
Many cancer-inducing products can even be found in our very own homes, primarily due to poor government regulation. If you’re looking to take precaution, here’s a list of eight of the most common household items that can cause cancer.
Air Fresheners
If it’s harmful to the environment (and the o-zone layer), it’s probably harmful to the human body as well. Two of the most harmful chemicals in everyday kitchens are napthelene and formaldehyde, both of which can be found in air fresheners. To reduce exposure to these, it’s best to buy and use natural sprays with much greener labels.
Art Supplies
Art rooms are full of carcinogens, or cancer-causing chemicals. Many glues, acrylic paints and solvents contain these chemicals. If you use up a lot of art supplies, opt for greener, low-chemical materials.
Plastic Containers
Although plastic containers are safe for general use, they can become dangerous to your health if they’re re-used. Be aware that all plastic containers have a “life span”, and it’s best not to use them beyond that. For example, you may want to hold off on reusing water bottles more than three times.
Automotive Supplies
Almost all automotive supplies can be toxic. Most of us need access to automotive supplies, like motor oil and antifreeze–just make sure to keep them outside of your home or in a sealed container out of everyday exposure, like in a utility closet or garage.
Styrofoam
If you’re planning on stocking up on reusable dishware, always choose paper over styrofoam (or plastic). Being a known carcinogen, styrofoam is one of the hardest chemical compounds to destroy. If something can’t be naturally broken down, it’s probably not safe to use… or eat off of.
Nail Polish
Nail polish is also considered to hold the deadly carcinogen, formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a chemical used to preserve dead tissue (found in funeral homes), but it can also be used to preserve paint and nail polish. The more exposure to formaldehyde via nail polish or paint, the higher the risk of cancer, so next time you do your nails, make sure to use natural, non-formaldehyde nail polish. The last thing you’ll want is to carry a carcinogen on your finger tips.
Candles
Not all candles are harmful, but most artificially scented (non-natural) that produce combustion by-products and soot are also considered deadly carcinogens. To reduce your health risks, opt on beeswax (natural) candles instead.
Fiber Glass
Fiber glass is an insulation material used on most houses in the United States. They line the walls and ceilings, ensuring the insulation of both hot and cold temperatures. Although fiber glass has it’s uses, it’s also explained to be one of the most damaging carcinogens in the market today. In fact, many states have made the use of fiber glass completely optional in house constructing. Most fiber glass is lined with a cellulose-fill material to keep it from expelling chemicals into the air, so make sure your house lining also has cellulose-fill material in order to decrease your chance of exposure.
Have You Been Affected?
If you’ve owned one or more of these products, have felt their after effects and can’t afford treatment, there are many organizations that help people in your situation. Many law firms are expert civil suit professionals that can help you reach a settlement that can go toward your treatment. Earlier this year, Baron and Budd scored a $5.95 million verdict for a Louisiana mesothelioma patient.
There are many household items that can be harmful to your health, but by knowing how to live cleaner, without these products or by substituting them with less harmful or cleaner ones, you’ll be able to decrease your exposure to harmful carcinogens.