Is there any proof that parabens cause Cancer?

Question

So if it's false, why are some companies removing parabens from their products? If there wasn't a concern, why remove them?

Answer 1

No, there is no scientific proof that parabens cause cancer.

The concern arises from a small study in 2004 by British researchers which found traces of parabens in tissue taken from women with breast cancer. The tumours of 20 women were tested, and for obvious reasons there was no control group.

The researchers claimed the study demonstrated that if people are exposed to parabens , the chemicals will accumulate in their bodies

However, this extremely small study doesn't demonstrate a direct causal link between parabens in deodorant or antiperspirant and other products and developing breast cancer. A study that small cannot be regarded as proof.

Companies that remove parabens from their products do so because they know that people are concerned and that there is a market for paraben-free products. And some companies have always tried to minimise or eliminate the use of preservatives etc.

There are many deodorants and other products available without parabens, and many people choose to use them to be on the safe side - I do myself, and did long before my breast cancer diagnosis - but there is no proof of a link with breast cancer or with any other cancer

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cancer-...

Answer 2

If the risk was proven, you would soon see all the reputable skincare companies would remove parabens from their products.

If there was a risk, can you imagine how many lawsuits would be flying around?

However, many people think that parabens are bad - I ran a talk for cancer patients at a Haven cancer centre, where all the participants received a marvellous 'goodie' bag courtesy of Clinique.  Instead of saying thank you, the executive phoned to rant and rave about how could I put their reputation at risk handing out products with parabens.

When I sent them proof, from researchers, doctors and even Wikipedia saying that as far as people knew,parabens were perfectly OK - and they never even apologised or said sorry.

So whilst reputable companies continue to use parabens -make up your own mind.  I write about skincare for cancer patients on www.after-cancer.com and I use lots of products that contain parabens.

Answer 3

The FDA will not say they do.  So you decide.