Canc3r is certainly one of the most tough diseases. Its origins can be multiple: immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, or even our daily environment, which can play a vital role. Heavy metals, actinism radiation, and different carcinogens can cunningly sneak our bodies, leading to cellular mutations and paving the way for canc3r.
We tend to think that closing the door and washing our hands is enough, but our homes themselves can be bursting with carcinogens. Let’s explore six everyday objects that harbor harmful substances and that we should protect ourselves from.
Scented candles and air fresheners
Often applied to enhance the atmosphere of enclosed spaces such as bathrooms or to mask unpleasant odors, scented candles and air fresheners consists of harmful materials such as limonene and phthalates.
Limonene, although harmless in its pure form and known for its lemon scent, can turn into formaldehyde, a carcinogen, when discharged the air. Formaldehyde can cause inflammatory reactions, hepatotoxicity, lung can.cer, breast can.cer, and affect pregnant women and fetuses with prolonged exposure.
Phthalates in scented candles prolong the fragrance’s diffusion, but they are endocrine disruptors. Excessive exposure can cause hormonal disruption, increase the risk of liver cancer, and affect pregnant women and fetuses.
Burning scented candles indoors, especially in bedrooms, can increase carbon monoxide levels, leading to dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Apply these products cheaply and remember to express your home frequently.
Air humidifiers
Humidifiers have become crucial for moisturizing dry air, both in summer and winter. However, questions keep about their safety, especially in young children’s bedrooms.
A study has found that both tap water and purified water applied in humidifiers consist of microorganisms after one night. Humidifiers boost bacterial growth because of the stagnant water they contain.
If you don’t keep your humidifier properly, harmful bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Legionella can proliferate, leading to various respiratory illnesses. Wash your humidifier’s tank thoroughly every other day and allow it to dry completely when not in use.
Dry cleaning
Clothes that are hard to wash are often sent to dry cleaners. However, dry cleaning relies on petroleum-derived substances such as benzene and ethylbenzene, which are harmful to health.
Perchloroethylene, the main substance applied, is a known carcinogen. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of esophageal, uterine, and bladder can.cers. Breathing these compounds can cause symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, memory problems, and skin rashes .
Remember to immediately get rid of the plastic from clothes coming out of the dry cleaners and let them air for 3 to 4 hours before putting them away in your wardrobe.
Cash register receipts
Cash register receipts, printed on thermal paper, consist of chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), a well-known endocrine disruptor.
Continued exposure to BPA can cause hormonal disruption, early puberty, birth defects, and be connected to uterine and breast ca.ncer, as well as diabetes and obesity. Control receipts with care. Hold the unprinted portion and avoid keeping them in your pockets or wallet.
Hairbrushes
Hairbrushes can bear bacteria in surprising quantities.
These bacteria can cause itching, dandruff, folliculitis, and even contribute to hair loss. Clean your brush or comb in warm, soapy water for at least 10 minutes, then wash it thoroughly with a toothbrush. Then let it dry completely in the sun.
Remote controls
Television remote controls are a key source of bacteria. A study announced in the Journal of Infection Prevention found that they bear bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, pneumococcus, and Enterococcus faecalis, which can cause skin infections, pneumonia, abdominal pain, and urinary tract infections.
Hotel room remote controls are particularly polluted. Clean your hotel room remote before using it, and regularly clean your living room remote with a simple wipe or cloth soaked in alcohol.
Although our homes are full of potential sources of harmful bacteria, a little vigilance and simple cleaning habits can significantly reduce the risks. Keeping a healthy environment also makes sure your well-being.
