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| - Last Updated on May 22, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
Recent news reports suggest that bandages can cause cancer. After fact-checking, we found this claim to be half true.
The Claim
A video on social media claims that bandages can cause cancer because they contain cancer causing chemicals.
Fact Check
Is it true that bandages can cause cancer?
No, not really. But there is more to it than just a simple ‘Yes’ and ‘No’. A study conducted by Environmental Health News and Mamavation, found that popular brands of bandages contain chemicals called PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances). These are also known as ‘Forever chemicals’. The PFAS pose numerous health consequences like:
Reduction in immunity, reduced vaccination response, increased risk of allergies and asthma in young children, effects on growth and learning abilities of infants and older children, increased cholesterol level, metabolic diseases (obesity and diabetes), cardiovascular diseases, reduced female and male fertility, risk of kidney and testicular cancer, causes endocrine disruption, disruption of normal thyroid function, and risk of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children.
With that being said, using bandages will not cause cancer immediately, because we use bandages for a short time and very sparingly. Prolonged use over a long period of time may have some health effects. Also, as per Department of Health Rhode Island, the permissible limits for PFAS in drinking water is 70 parts per trillion. In the Mamavation and Environmental Health News study, the detected levels of organic fluorine (indicative of PFAS) came in the range of 11 to 328 parts per million. We also need to note that there aren’t enough studies, data and evidence to accurately find out what concentration of PFAS is actually carcinogenic and under what conditions. We also need more information and research on the interaction of PFAS with open wounds. Furthermore, the precise risk of PFAS exposure through the skin remains uncertain. Nonetheless, earlier lab research conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health indicate that exposure to PFAS through the skin presents comparable health risks to ingesting the chemicals through food or water.
What does carcinogenic mean?
‘Carcinogenic’ refers to substances or agents that have the ability to cause cancer. These can either directly initiate cancerous changes in cells or promote the growth of cancer cells. Carcinogens are present in various forms, including chemicals, radiation, and biological agents. Exposure to carcinogens, whether through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, can increase the risk of developing cancer over time. It’s important to minimise exposure to known carcinogens and to follow safety guidelines to reduce the risk of cancer. One must remember, not every exposure to a carcinogen results in cancer for every individual each time.
What is PFAS?
PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. They are a group of artificial chemicals that are widely used in various industries since the 1940s. PFAS have the ability to repel water and oil. They are also resistance to heat, which makes them useful in a wide range of products. Examples include non-stick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics, firefighting foam, and more.
However, PFAS have raised environmental and health concerns due to their persistence in the environment and their potential adverse effects on human health. They pose a risk for various health issues, including cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, and developmental problems in children. PFAS can accumulate in the environment, the food chain, and in human bodies over time. Thus, earning the nickname “Forever chemicals.”
Which brands of bandages were harmful?
The Mamavation study discovered PFAS traces in well-known bandage brands like Band-Aid, Equate, and CVS Health. However, it’s reassuring that certain brands like 3M and Tru Colour were devoid of organic fluorine and other harmful compounds.
What are some of the common examples of carcinogens?
Common carcinogens found in everyday items and environments include tobacco smoke, which contains numerous cancer-causing chemicals leading to lung, throat, and bladder cancer. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds poses a significant risk of skin cancer. Asbestos in older buildings can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma. Arsenic, present in the environment and sometimes in contaminated water or food, elevates the risk of skin, lung, and bladder cancer. Formaldehyde in building materials and household products is linked to leukaemia and nasopharyngeal cancer. Benzene in industrial processes and tobacco smoke is associated with leukaemia and blood-related cancers. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from incomplete combustion of organic materials increase the risk of lung, skin, and bladder cancer. Heavy metals like cadmium, chromium, and nickel, found in industrial and consumer products, are known carcinogens. Excessive alcohol consumption poses a higher risk of liver, breast, and colorectal cancer. Moreover, exposure to ionising radiation from medical procedures or accidents can heighten cancer risk. Processed meat, vegetables heated to very high temperatures (they release acrylamide) and pollution. For a complete list of carcinogens, see here.
What have the regulatory authorities done to regulate the use and release of PFAS?
International agencies have taken several steps to regulate the use and release of PFAS. This is mainly due to growing concerns about their environmental and health impacts. Some of the key actions include:
- Stockholm Convention: The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants is an international treaty which eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). In May 2019, the convention added PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate), its salts, and PFOSF (perfluorooctane sulfonyl fluoride) to the list of chemicals subject to global restrictions. These chemicals are part of the PFAS family.
- United Nations: The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) assesses the risks associated with PFAS and supporting efforts to address them. UNEP has facilitated discussions among member countries on the need for international action to regulate PFAS.
- European Union: The European Union (EU) has taken steps to regulate PFAS under various regulations, including the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. The EU has restricted the use of certain PFAS in consumer products and is considering further restrictions.
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA has taken actions to address PFAS contamination in the United States. This includes setting health advisory levels for certain PFAS in drinking water, issuing cleanup guidance, and researching the health and environmental impacts of PFAS.
- Other national and regional regulations: Several countries and regions have implemented their own regulations to restrict or phase out the use of certain PFAS. For example, some Nordic countries have banned the use of PFAS in certain consumer products, and some U.S. states have enacted their own regulations on PFAS in drinking water and products.
Are there any regulations in India to control PFAS?
While India lacks specific regulations targeting PFAS, existing environmental laws like the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, offer a framework for managing pollution, potentially encompassing PFAS contamination. Additionally, some industries have voluntarily reduced PFAS use, and certain state governments have initiated monitoring and remediation efforts, particularly in areas affected by industrial activities or pollution. Moreover, India participates in international agreements such as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, facilitating collaboration with global agencies to regulate PFAS. As awareness grows, India may consider enacting more specific regulations and guidelines to effectively manage and mitigate PFAS pollution. We must recognize the necessity of comprehensive action to safeguard human health and the environment.
We have done numerous fact checks on cancer and various other diseases: Can sunscreens cause melanoma? Can 4-MBC in sunscreen cause cancer? Is there a miracle cure for diabetes? Can wearing bindi on forehead cure insomnia? Does alcohol have any health benefits? Can oils and cream help to prevent knee replacement surgery? Can elbow tapping cure heart blockages?
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