A study conducted by the American Institute of Health on Monday revealed that hair-straightening products, used in particular by dark-skinned women, increase the risk of uterine cancer.
According to research, women who use these products more than four times a year see the risk of developing this type of cancer more than doubled.
Research on the topic was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute and praised by independent experts who have invoked the “precautionary principle” to call for more legislation, although more studies are needed to dig deeper into these findings.
Cervical cancer, which is different from cervical cancer, is a relatively rare form of the disease and accounts for about 3% of new cancer cases in the United States, with 66,000 cases and 12,500 deaths recorded in 2022.
However, the incidence of this type of cancer is increasing in the country, especially among black women.
The study was based on data from nearly 33,500 American women who were recruited between 2003 and 2009 and were followed for nearly 11 years. A total of 378 of these women developed uterine cancer.
For women who haven’t used hair-straightening products before, the risk of developing uterine cancer at age 70 is 1.64%, compared to 4.05% for frequent users, according to a statement from the study’s lead author, Alexandra White.
The researchers did not collect information about specific products or brands, but did note that several commonly used chemicals could contribute to an increased risk of cancer, such as parabens, BPA, minerals, or even formaldehyde.
Straightening products can enhance chemical absorption through injuries or burns to the scalp or through the use of straighteners, which break down the chemicals.
Emily Brontë is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, literature, and current affairs. She is dedicated to producing clear, accurate reporting that helps readers stay informed about developments in the UK and around the world.
