- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Breast cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of women all over the world. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common among all cancers diagnosed in women around the world, constituting about 12% of all new cases of cancer every year. The impact of this disease is huge, not only on the individuals but also on families and communities.
Several studies have indicated that many factors may contribute to the increased risk for breast cancer, from genes to lifestyle choices. However, new research shows that exposure to some chemicals in food packaging is another contributory cause and can lead to an increased risk of breast cancer.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Mohit Saxena, Consultant and HOD Medical Oncology, Manipal Hospital, Gurguram explained how consuming packaged food can lead to breast cancer.
The Link Between Packaged Food And Breast Cancer: Study
According to the study conducted by Food Packaging Forum, around 190 chemicals make up a large portion found in food packaging materials-mostly grease-resistant or flexible gases were linked to a higher risk of developing breast cancer. These are known as endocrine disruptors, which could mimic and alter the normal hormones of the body, interfering with normal cell growth and development. This disruption is believed to be a contributing factor to hormone-related cancers like breast cancer.
Many experts believe that environmental factors such as exposure to toxins and particularly harmful chemicals, are the main contributors to the rising rate of breast cancer among women. This concern is escalated by the presence of "forever chemicals," like PFAS which is used in food packaging. The PFAS or polyfluoroalkyl substances are difficult to break down and stick around for years and decades in the environment and in our own bodies. PFAS are used both as liquid repellents and in inks which get added up in our body as well as the environment and diminish our health.
Studies have already attributed these chemicals to changing one's metabolism rate, reduced fertility cases, obesity, damaged immunity, and even the risk of cancer. Other risk factors under study include obesity, alcohol use and physical inactivity.
Packaged foods are either heavy on sugars and unhealthy fats or coated with artificial additives, which can start inflammation and hormonal imbalance in the body, possibly leading to the development of cancer cells, including breast cancer cells. In "Ultra-processed food intake and risk of cancer in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovary Cancer Screening Trial," published in the BMJ for every 10% increase in ultra-processed food consumption, there is an increase in risk of cancer. It is important to reduce their intake and following a diet rich in whole foods, fruits and vegetables may lessen the chances of developing breast cancer.