5 things that can cause cancer – Grilling is among them
Habits that can lead to cancer are named (photo: Freepik)
Some everyday habits that may seem harmless—or even healthy—can significantly increase the risk of developing cancer. The Daily Mail has listed five of the most dangerous.
A cancer research initiative that has cost billions has identified five things people should avoid to maximize their chances of reducing cancer risk.
Dr. Mikkael Sekeres, chief of hematology at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Florida, noted that even beverages considered healthier than alcohol can raise risks and potentially lead to throat cancer.
Grilling
Grilling meats like beef, poultry, fish, or pork at high temperatures leads to the formation of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—groups of chemical compounds known to be mutagenic and potentially carcinogenic.
This happens when meat proteins react to heat, and fat and juices drip onto the flames, creating smoke and flare-ups.
Recent studies show that the chemicals formed on grilled meat can cause harmful inflammation and oxidative stress, disrupting the balance between disease-fighting antioxidants and damaging free radicals that attack cells and tissues.
Dr. Sekeres limits his intake of grilled meat to once a month.
"Less grilling is better, and each of us must determine our own tolerance for cancer risk when deciding how often to consume grilled meats," he added.
Excessively hot beverages
A study conducted in China found that people who drank hot tea, over 60°C (140°F), and consumed at least one alcoholic drink daily had five times the risk of developing esophageal cancer compared to those who did not.
It is believed that beverages over 60°C damage esophageal cells, especially when consumed multiple times a day over many years.
Chemical hair straighteners and dyes
Hair dyes and chemical straighteners contain formaldehyde, a proven human carcinogen, and phthalates, toxic chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable.
These are also endocrine disruptors, meaning they mimic the body’s hormones and interfere with the production of natural ones like estrogen and testosterone.
A 2022 study found that using any hair-straightening products in the previous year was associated with a higher risk of uterine cancer.
Hookah smoking
Hookah involves burning flavored tobacco with charcoal and inhaling the smoke through a hose. The water filters the smoke, which leads many to mistakenly believe it’s healthier than smoking cigarettes.
However, hookah smoke contains many harmful chemicals, including tar, carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogens known to cause cancer.
Dr. Sekeres stated that hookah smokers are exposed to more carbon monoxide than cigarette smokers.
Tattoos
A Swedish study showed that people with tattoos have a 21% higher risk of developing cancer compared to those without. Tattoos have been linked to cancers of the lymphatic system—specifically, lymphoma.
The exact chemical composition depends on the ink brand but typically includes synthetic molecules, stabilizers, and heavy metals such as cadmium, which has been associated with kidney damage, bone disease, lung conditions, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Researchers note that tattoo ink can cause chronic inflammation, which may lead to abnormal cell growth and an elevated cancer risk.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
