Beware of using lipsticks! You might end up getting breast cancer, warn scientists in the
Learn more about Technology Related Problems
Before reaching the conclusion, scientists fed lactating rats with the chemical Butyl Benzyl Phthalate or BBP found in lipstick and nail varnish, which was then absorbed by their offspring via breast milk.
The chemical altered the genetic makeup of cells in the young female rats’ mammary glands, the organs that produce milk, the online edition of a British tabloid reported.
Although the effects wore of BBP was removed from the diet, the subtle changes could have an effect later in life, the scientists say.
The man-made substance is a part of the Phthalate family of chemicals widely used to soften the plastic and are found in food packaging, toys, carpets and solvents. Past studies have linked with birth defects, kidney problems and infertility.
“We are the first to report that neonatal/pre-pubertal exposure to BBP included modifications in the gene expression mammary tissue”, said team leader Jose Russo at the Fox Chase Cancer Centre in
“BBP is in the environment, so a constant exposure via inhalation and digestive tract can reach many different organs, including the breast, the researchers reported in the online journal BMC genomics.
“This is an indication that the same could happen in humans. Even if an individual is exposed to it in the beginning of life, BBP can cause alterations later in life”, he said.
“In this direction, we are evaluating if the exposure of this compound in young girls is associated with early puberty and breast development”, Russo said.
The researchers, however, said more studies were needed to determine if the chemical did actually increase the risk of breast cancer in rats. (IANS).
Learn more about Technology Related Problems
No comments:
Post a Comment