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Is our daily life exposure to aluminium (Al) suspected to influence Breast Cancer development?
- by Shital
- on August 19, 2024
Breast cancer, the most frequently diagnosed cancer globally and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths is a topic that demands your attention and speaking the severity of the role of environmental factors.
In the UK alone, where 15% of all new cases are registered, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 10 minutes, and 1 man a day.
However, without intervention, this rate is projected to increase to a woman’s diagnosis every 8 minutes by 2040. While advancements in screening programs and targeted therapy have led to a decrease in breast cancer mortality since 1990, where the incidence of this disease continues to rise.
While the statistics covering breast cancer may be alarming, it is necessary to identify the improvement in survival rates and treatment outcomes. Now, 76% of individuals live for ten or more years post-diagnosis, and there is hope for those battling this disease. So, we need to raise awareness, explore more/new risk factors like aluminium exposure, and conduct in-depth research on environmental impacts. We move one step closer to combating breast cancer and better breast cancer outcomes.
Different factors are have been associated with breast cancer risk, which has already been identified as personal and familial history of the disease, such as genetic predispositions (likelihood of developing a disease) like alterations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Hormonal exposure to progesterone and estrogen-dependent cancers, advanced age, and exposure to endocrine disruptors chemicals (EDCs) that directly stimulate the endocrine system during pregnancy also contribute to the BC risk.
Surprisingly, these known risk factors can only explain a <25% of breast cancer cases. Therefore, it becomes crucial to study deeper into lesser-known risk factors to inform the public and focus on prevention strategies.
The Role of Aluminium on Breast Cancer!
Aluminium alloys are often used in daily life, and are inextricably linked to the modern age due to their abundant availability triggers our exposure to this non-essential toxic dust that causes diseases. Aluminium, a substance biologically available and associated with various human diseases, including neurological disorders, also has now been linked to breast cancer.
Philippa D. Darbre from ‘School of Biological Sciences – UK’, Ferdinando Mannello ‘Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of ‘Carlo Bo’, Italy’, and Christopher Exley ‘Birchall Centre, Lennard-Jones Laboratories, Keele University – UK’ has shown in their recent research and uncovered the presence of aluminium in human breast structures, which potentially links exposure to the topical application of aluminium salts commonly found in antiperspirants. This recent evidence highlights the need to further investigate the connection between aluminium exposure and the development of breast cancer.
These studies have hinted at the potential influence of inorganic xenoestrogens like Aluminium acting as metalloestrogens, mimicking estrogenic effects in the body through gene expression alterations and interactions with estrogen receptors which is the aetiology of breast cancer. This emphasises the need for continued research to solve the complex links between environmental factors and breast cancer development.
What are the sources of exposure to aluminium in the human breast?
In our daily lives, we are exposed to aluminium alloys in various forms (third-most abundant chemical element) – from our diet to personal care products, food packaging, ceramics, antacids, and even vaccinations. However, there is one particular source of exposure that deserves our attention when it comes to the human breast – aluminium-based antiperspirant salts.
When we apply antiperspirants containing aluminium salts to our underarms, we are subjecting the nearby area of our breasts or armpit to a specific high and lifelong exposure level increase the risk of breast cancer. The aluminium salts commonly used in these products include aluminium chloride (AlCl3), aluminium chlorohydrate (AlnCl(3n-m)(OH)m), and aluminium zirconium trichlorohydrex gly (Zr4+ & Al3+).
How do dermal products include aluminium absorbed through human skin?
Should we be concerned about the continuous aluminium exposure in our antiperspirant salts? Often or multiple times use in a day, some antiperspirants/deodorant compounds are left on the skin, that are constantly exposed to dermal toxicants that cause harm to the epidermal tissue or are soaked through the epidermis.
Some researchers have suggested that the absorption of aluminium salt compounds penetrating through the skin may cause estrogen receptor changes in breast cells.
Since estrogen can stimulate the growth of both cancer and non-cancerous breast cells, the use of aluminium-based compounds in antiperspirants/deodorants has been subjected to a potential risk factor for the development of breast cancer.
However, studies have shown that the absorption of aluminium through the skin is quite limited. A recent study discovered that antiperspirants containing aluminium chlorohydrate only absorbed a small amount (0.012%) in our bodies. This amount is significantly less than what would be expected from the intake of aluminium-containing foods in a day.
While these findings provide some reassurance, however, it’s important to note that research in this area is ongoing and further studies are needed to fully understand the possible risk factors associated with aluminium exposure on breast health.
How Can I Start My Journey to Know More About Breast Cancer Risks and How Do I Get Regular Breast Screening From a Koning Breast CT FDA-approved Machine?
Education is key in allowing individuals to be aware of their breast health and well-being. For those looking to deepen their knowledge of breast cancer, platforms like the Euronoxx Medical Group provide complete information on various aspects of breast cancer risks and 3D breast screening importance, its causes and prevention through early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
Regular breast screening is highly recommended after the age of 40, this could be a proactive measure in identifying breast cancer at an early stage.
One such technology is Koning 3D breast CT, which is FDA-approved, and can significantly reduce the risk of mortality associated with breast cancer.
For breast cancer screening, one useful tip is to avoid using antiperspirants or deodorants on the day of the screening. Most of these products contain aluminium, which can be detected by advanced technologies like Koning 3D breast CT.
This precaution helps prevent any confusion during breast screening reviews, as aluminium can show up as tiny white specks that may simulate microcalcifications, or false recalls of breast cancer.
We invite people and encourage them to engage with their healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, local GPs, and professionals for open discussion on breast cancer that makes a pleasant environment that promotes health and wellness.
Our flagship initiatives have been set on the upcoming conference “Breast Cancer 2024 Symposium” with collaborations of “London International Medical School (LIMS) – as one of our esteemed partners”, and “Koning Corporation from the United States of America (USA)”.
This innovative and ambitious programme calls leading experts from the UK and sponsored speakers from the USA, who they going to offer relief and support throughout the breast cancer awareness journey.
Remember, taking proactive steps today can make a significant difference in the fight against breast cancer tomorrow.
For further inquiries and guidance, do not hesitate to contact Edward Beasley – Symposium Secretary at +441234567890 or you can email us at [email protected]
