October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A lot of focus is turned to cures and research for a cure, but what about prevention? Breast cancer has many variables to it as to what causes it and what is linked to it as possible contributors to the cause. Genetics, age, the fact we are females, use of birth control and hormone replacement therapies are all commonly known causes. Other links to breast cancer have also come to light over the past couple decades.

Many of these links are known as “endocrine system disruptors”. We will be covering what your endocrine system actually does in an upcoming blog, but for today, you only need to know that the endocrine system regulates estrogen levels in our body. Higher levels of estrogen have been linked to breast cancer. The list is long for these endocrine disruptors and eliminating these from your health and beauty products could help lower the risk of developing breast cancer.

Parabens, phthalates and triclosan are all known endocrine disruptors. They are also found in many health and beauty products such as shampoos, soaps and you guessed, deodorant.

Aluminum is another toxic substance that has actually been found in breast cancer tissue. It is also found in many antiperspirants.

Approximately 190,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. The majority of the cases are women. While eliminating every cause or link is impossible, there is a lot that can be done. Start reading labels. Choose products that are free from toxic substances and chemicals like the ones above. We happen to think Evelyn Kay is a great choice for what you apply under your arms every day. Read and educate yourself so you can make informed and empowered decisions about what you put on and in your body; we have a great blog, with easy to read information that you can share with others to help with that. Finally, ask better questions. We will be here asking questions and hopefully answering a few along the way as well. Education and prevention are key: Let’s do this together!