Carcinogens: An Avoider's Guide

What is carcinogen? Carcinogen is a substance or agent that can cause cells to become cancerous by altering their genetic structure so that they multiple continuously and become malignant.

Acrylamide- Crispy, crunchy stuff such as potato chips, crackers, and fries contain the most. This suspected carcinogen was recently let off the hook as a breast cancer promoter, but it may raise the risk of other types.

Alcohol- Moderation, meaning no more than a drink (for women) or two (men) a day, is your best bet.

Bromodichloromethane: It's in the water and vapors released from chlorinated swimming pools and saunas. It has given rats kidney and intestinal cancers. More and More pools are using alternative water -purification systems: you can check with local pools to see if there is one near you.

Heterocyclic Amines and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: The first are in very well-done meats, the second in charred grilled meats and veggies. Minimize exposure by cooking food until done, not well-done.

Reserpine: This blood pressure drug has induced adrenal and breast tumors in rats and mice. Roserpine can be an effective treatment for patients who don't respond to diuretics, but it should always be a second-line treatment. You can discuss your options with your doctor.

Safrole- Found in the pungent oil of sassafras root bark, it has caused lung and liver cancer in mice. Although safrole is banned by the FDA, sassafras rook bark is still sold.

Wood Dust and Soot: Known human carcinogens, both can up your odds for nasal and lung cancer. This is a concern for carpenters and cabinetmakers; even hobbyist will want to take precautions like wearing a mask or respirator while working.

Oprah January 2008
read full report ntp.niehs.nih.gov and click on Report on Carcinogens