Parabens and antiperspirants

from Betty Kamen, PhD, and Dr. Michael Rosenbaum, MD

Tests show that the chemical paraben, used in antiperspirants and other cosmetics, are present in breast cancer tumors.

Research shows that levels of parabens are so high in samples studied, they could have a damaging biological effect on cells.

The problem is that parabens act on cells just as estrogen does, promoting tumor growth. Parabens are used in many cosmetic items, and also in preparations used as dermatology remedies. One recent research project reported paraben testing on fish, and the results also showed estrogenic activity.

Negative reports about its use go back several years. The human population is exposed to parabens through their widespread use as preservatives in foods, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Parabens can accumulate in hormonally sensitive tissues and their weak estrogenic activity can add to the more general environmental estrogen problem.

Sources: Reading University Report, London, Jan 12, 2004; Toxicology 200315;194(1-2):43-50; Food Chemistry & Toxicology 2001;39(12):1225-32; Journal of Steroid Biochemistry & Molecular Biology 2002;80(1):49-60.

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