List of 100 Cancer-Causing Chemicals

 

chemicals inside a body graphic
Cancer causing Chemicals

This list provides information on 100 chemicals and substances that have been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer. While the risk may be small in many cases, it is important to be aware of these potential risks and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. 

Our aim is to provide background information that may be helpful, rather than to scare or make you nervous. It is a fact that many chemicals used in everyday products can have implications for our health, so it is important to consider all options and to consult with your doctor. 

There are many other chemicals and substances that can be harmful, and it is always important to exercise caution when using products that may contain any of these potentially harmful substances. 

We have included links to research for those who wish to learn more about the chemicals and substances listed. While many products still use these chemicals and substances, there are often safe and natural alternatives available, especially for cleaning products

We encourage everyone to consider these alternatives and to prioritize their health and well-being.

Non-Toxic Articles 

https://www.ourgreenerhome.com/2023/03/the-all-inclusive-guide-how-to-avoid.html

A

  • Acetaldehyde

Acetaldehyde is a chemical that is naturally produced in the body when alcohol is metabolized. It is also found in various industrial processes, such as the production of plastics and textiles. Acetaldehyde has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a Group 1 carcinogen, which means that it is known to cause cancer in humans. It has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the upper respiratory tract, liver, and possibly other organs.

  • Acrylamide

Acrylamide is a chemical that is formed when certain foods are cooked at high temperatures, such as during frying or baking. It is also used in various industrial processes, such as the production of plastics and dyes. Acrylamide has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen, which means that it is probably carcinogenic to humans. It has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the kidney, endometrium, and ovaries.

  • Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile is a chemical that is used in the production of plastics, fibers, and other industrial products. It has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen, which means that it is probably carcinogenic to humans. Exposure to acrylonitrile has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the lung, breast, and pancreas, among others.

  • Aflatoxins

Aflatoxins are a group of naturally occurring toxins produced by certain molds that grow on crops, such as peanuts and corn. They are classified by the IARC as Group 1 carcinogens, which means that they are known to cause cancer in humans. Aflatoxins have been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, particularly in individuals who consume large amounts of contaminated foods.

  • Alcohol

Alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon. The IARC has classified alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, which means that it is known to cause cancer in humans. The risk of developing cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.

  • Alkanizing agents

Alkanizing agents are chemicals that are used to increase the pH of solutions. They are commonly used in various industrial processes, such as the production of pulp and paper. Exposure to alkanizing agents has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the lung, skin, and bladder, among others.

  • Aluminum production

Exposure to certain chemicals used in aluminum production, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and formaldehyde, has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including lung cancer and bladder cancer.

  • Aromatic amines

Aromatic amines are a group of chemicals that are used in the production of dyes, rubber, and other industrial products. Exposure to certain aromatic amines has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer, among others.

  • Arsenic

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that is found in various sources, such as soil and water. Exposure to high levels of arsenic has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including skin, lung, bladder, and liver cancer. Arsenic has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Asbestos

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that are used in various industrial processes, such as construction and the production of insulation materials. Exposure to asbestos fibers has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases. Asbestos has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Asphalt fumes

Exposure to asphalt fumes, which are produced during the heating and processing of asphalt, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.

cigarette buts inside someone's lungs
Cancer Causing Chemical we all know about 
B

  • Benzene

Benzene is a chemical that is used in various industrial processes, such as the production of plastics and rubber. Exposure to high levels of benzene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, as well as other blood disorders. Benzene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Benzidine

Benzidine is a chemical that is used in the production of dyes and other industrial products. Exposure to benzidine has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Benzidine has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Benzo[a]pyrene

Benzo[a]pyrene is a chemical that is formed during the incomplete burning of organic matter, such as tobacco smoke and grilled or charred foods. Exposure to benzo[a]pyrene has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other types of cancer. Benzo[a]pyrene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Beryllium and beryllium compounds

Beryllium is a metal that is used in various industrial processes, such as the production of aerospace components and nuclear reactors. Exposure to beryllium and beryllium compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Beryllium and beryllium compounds have been classified by the IARC as Group 1 carcinogens.

  • Bis(chloromethyl) ether

Bis(chloromethyl) ether is a chemical that was used in the production of plastics and other industrial products. Exposure to bis(chloromethyl) ether has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. It has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Bromate

Bromate is a chemical that is formed during the disinfection of drinking water. Exposure to high levels of bromate has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer. Bromate has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen, which means that it is possibly carcinogenic to humans.

C

  • Cadmium and cadmium compounds

Cadmium is a metal that is used in various industrial processes, such as the production of batteries and pigments. Exposure to cadmium and cadmium compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, as well as prostate cancer. Cadmium and cadmium compounds have been classified by the IARC as Group 1 carcinogens.

  • Carbon black

Carbon black is a fine powder that is used in the production of rubber, plastics, and other industrial products. Exposure to carbon black has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Carbon black has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Carbon tetrachloride

Carbon tetrachloride is a chemical that was used as a solvent and in the production of refrigerants and other industrial products. Exposure to carbon tetrachloride has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer and other types of cancer. Carbon tetrachloride has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Chlorambucil

Chlorambucil is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat certain types of cancer. However, it can also increase the risk of secondary cancers, such as leukemia, in some patients.

  • Chloroform

Chloroform is a chemical that was used as an anesthetic and in the production of refrigerants and other industrial products. Exposure to high levels of chloroform has been linked to an increased risk of liver and kidney cancer. Chloroform has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen, which means that it is probably carcinogenic to humans.

  • Chromium(VI) compounds

Chromium(VI) compounds are used in various industrial processes, such as electroplating, welding, and the production of stainless steel. Exposure to chromium(VI) compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, as well as stomach cancer. Chromium(VI) compounds have been classified by the IARC as Group 1 carcinogens.

  • Cobalt and cobalt compounds

Cobalt is a metal that is used in various industrial processes, such as the production of alloys and batteries. Exposure to cobalt and cobalt compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Cobalt and cobalt compounds have been classified by the IARC as Group 2B carcinogens.

  • Coke production

Coke production involves heating coal to high temperatures to produce coke, which is used in the production of iron and steel. Exposure to coke production emissions has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.

  • DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)

DDT is a pesticide that was widely used in the past to control insect populations. Exposure to DDT has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, as well as other types of cancer. DDT has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Dibenz[a,h]anthracene

Dibenz[a,h]anthracene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that is formed during the incomplete burning of organic matter, such as tobacco smoke and grilled or charred foods. Exposure to dibenz[a,h]anthracene has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other types of cancer. Dibenz[a,h]anthracene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Diethyl sulfate

Diethyl sulfate is a chemical that is used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial products. Exposure to diethyl sulfate has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly of the lung and other respiratory organs. Diethyl sulfate has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Dimethylcarbamoyl chloride

Dimethylcarbamoyl chloride is a chemical that is used in the production of pesticides, dyes, and other industrial products. Exposure to dimethylcarbamoyl chloride has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Dimethylcarbamoyl chloride has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Epichlorohydrin

Epichlorohydrin is a chemical that is used in the production of epoxy resins, textiles, and other industrial products. Exposure to epichlorohydrin has been linked to an increased risk of stomach and pancreatic cancer. Epichlorohydrin has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Ethylene oxide

Ethylene oxide is a chemical that is used to sterilize medical equipment and other heat-sensitive items. Exposure to ethylene oxide has been linked to an increased risk of lymphoid cancer, as well as breast and other types of cancer. Ethylene oxide has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Ethyleneimine

Ethyleneimine is a chemical that is used in the production of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial products. Exposure to ethyleneimine has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, as well as other types of cancer. Ethyleneimine has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a chemical that is used in the production of resins, plastics, and other industrial products, as well as in some medical procedures. Exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of nasopharyngeal cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Formaldehyde has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Gasoline

Gasoline is a fuel that is used in internal combustion engines, such as those in cars and trucks. Exposure to gasoline has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, as well as other types of cancer. Gasoline has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Hair dyes

Hair dyes are products that are used to color hair. Some hair dyes contain chemicals that have been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Hair dyes have been classified by the IARC as Group 2A or 2B carcinogens, depending on the specific chemicals they contain.

  • Hexachlorobenzene

Hexachlorobenzene is a chemical that was used as a fungicide and in the production of certain industrial products. Exposure to hexachlorobenzene has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Hexachlorobenzene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Hexachlorobutadiene

Hexachlorobutadiene is a chemical that is used in the production of rubber and other industrial products. Exposure to hexachlorobutadiene has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Hexachlorobutadiene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Hydrazine

Hydrazine is a chemical that is used as a rocket fuel and in the production of certain industrial products. Exposure to hydrazine has been linked to an increased risk of lung and other types of cancer. Hydrazine has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Inorganic lead compounds

Inorganic lead compounds are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of batteries and ammunition. Exposure to inorganic lead compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Inorganic lead compounds have been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Iron and steel founding

Iron and steel founding involves the melting of iron and steel to form molds and castings. Exposure to iron and steel founding emissions has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer.

  • Isoprene

Isoprene is a chemical that is used in the production of rubber and other industrial products. Exposure to isoprene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, as well as other types of cancer. Isoprene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Kepone

Kepone is a synthetic pesticide that was used to control insects in the production of paper and textiles. Exposure to kepone has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Kepone has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Lead and lead compounds

Lead and lead compounds are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of batteries and ammunition. Exposure to lead and lead compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Lead and lead compounds have been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Lindane

Lindane is a pesticide that was used to control insects and parasites. Exposure to lindane has been linked to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as other types of cancer. Lindane has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Manganese and manganese compounds

Manganese and manganese compounds are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of steel and batteries. Exposure to manganese and manganese compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Manganese and manganese compounds have been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Melphalan

Melphalan is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat multiple myeloma and other types of cancer. Melphalan has been linked to an increased risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

  • Mercury and mercury compounds

Mercury and mercury compounds are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of electrical equipment and batteries. Exposure to mercury and mercury compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Mercury and mercury compounds have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Methoxsalen

Methoxsalen is a drug that is used in phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis and other skin conditions. Methoxsalen has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer.

  • Methyleugenol

Methyleugenol is a chemical that is used in the production of fragrances and flavorings. Exposure to methyleugenol has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Methyleugenol has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Mineral oils

Mineral oils are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of lubricants and hydraulic fluids. Exposure to mineral oils has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Mineral oils have been classified by the IARC as a Group 3 carcinogen.

  • Mustard gas

Mustard gas is a chemical weapon that was used in warfare. Exposure to mustard gas has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia, as well as other types of cancer. Mustard gas has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

inside a factory with equipment making chemical s
We still have chemical factories producing known toxins

  • Naphthalene

Naphthalene is a chemical that is used in the production of dyes and other industrial products. Exposure to naphthalene has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Naphthalene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Nickel and nickel compounds

Nickel and nickel compounds are used in a variety of industrial processes, such as the production of stainless steel and batteries. Exposure to nickel and nickel compounds has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Nickel and nickel compounds have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Nitrate and nitrite in food

Nitrate and nitrite are chemicals that are used as preservatives in processed meat products, such as bacon and hot dogs. Consumption of foods containing nitrate and nitrite has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer. Nitrate and nitrite have been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Nitrobenzene

Nitrobenzene is a chemical that is used in the production of aniline, which is used in the production of dyes and other industrial products. Exposure to nitrobenzene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and other types of cancer. Nitrobenzene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Nitrogen mustard

Nitrogen mustard is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat various types of cancer. Nitrogen mustard has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and other types of cancer.

  • Nitrogen oxides

Nitrogen oxides are produced by the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and gasoline. Exposure to nitrogen oxides has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Nitrogen oxides have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Occupational exposure as a painter

Occupational exposure to painting materials, such as solvents and pigments, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer.

  • Oestrogens (postmenopausal)

Postmenopausal hormone therapy that contains oestrogens has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

  • Outdoor air pollution

Exposure to outdoor air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer.

  • Paints

Paints contain a variety of chemicals, such as solvents and pigments, that can be harmful when inhaled or ingested. Exposure to paints has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer.

  • Pesticides

Pesticides are used to control insects and pests in agriculture and other industries. Exposure to pesticides has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and brain cancer.

  • Phenoxy herbicides

Phenoxy herbicides, such as 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, were used as defoliants in the Vietnam War. Exposure to phenoxy herbicides has been linked to an increased risk of soft tissue sarcoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

medic looking at brain scan images
cancer-causing and many can be prevented 

  • Phenacetin

Phenacetin is a painkiller that was used in the past but is no longer available due to its carcinogenic properties. Phenacetin has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer and bladder cancer. Phenacetin has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals that are used in the production of plastics and other industrial products. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and other types of cancer. Phthalates have been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Plutonium

Plutonium is a radioactive element that is used in the production of nuclear weapons and nuclear reactors. Exposure to plutonium has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and bone cancer. Plutonium has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemicals that are produced by the incomplete burning of organic materials, such as coal and oil. Exposure to PAHs has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Some common sources of exposure to PAHs include cigarette smoke, automobile exhaust, and grilled or charred meat. Some specific PAHs, such as benzo[a]pyrene, have been classified by the IARC as Group 1 carcinogens.

  • Radon-222 and its decay products

Radon-222 is a radioactive gas that is produced by the decay of uranium in the soil. Exposure to radon-222 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, especially in people who live in areas with high levels of radon. Radon-222 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Radioiodines (131I, 133I) from nuclear reactors

Radioiodines are radioactive isotopes of iodine that are produced in nuclear reactors. Exposure to radioiodines has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer. Radioiodines have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Radium-224 and its decay products

Radium-224 is a radioactive element that is produced by the decay of uranium in the soil. Exposure to radium-224 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and bone cancer. Radium-224 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Radium-226 and its decay products

Radium-226 is a radioactive element that is produced by the decay of uranium in the soil. Exposure to radium-226 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and bone cancer. Radium-226 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Radium-228 and its decay products

Radium-228 is a radioactive element that is produced by the decay of uranium in the soil. Exposure to radium-228 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and bone cancer. Radium-228 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

green chemical spilling from oil tanks
Danger Cancer causing leak too common

  • Radon-220 and its decay products

Radon-220 is a radioactive gas that is produced by the decay of radium-224. Exposure to radon-220 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Radon-220 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Reactive dyes

Reactive dyes are used in the textile industry to color fabrics. Exposure to reactive dyes has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.

  • Residual oil fly ash

Residual oil fly ash is a byproduct of the combustion of residual oil. Exposure to residual oil fly ash has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer.

  • Silica dust, crystalline

Silica dust, crystalline is a common mineral that is found in many types of rocks and soils. Exposure to silica dust, crystalline has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other types of cancer. Silica dust, crystalline has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Solar radiation

Exposure to solar radiation, especially in people with fair skin, has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

  • Strong inorganic acid mists containing sulfuric acid

Exposure to strong inorganic acid mists containing sulfuric acid, which are used in industrial processes such as metal refining and battery manufacturing, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Strong inorganic acid mists containing sulfuric acid have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Styrene

Styrene is a chemical that is used in the production of plastics, rubber, and other materials. Exposure to styrene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma. Styrene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2B carcinogen.

  • Surgical implants with textured surfaces

Certain types of surgical implants, such as breast implants, may have textured surfaces that can increase the risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare type of cancer of the immune system.


  • Talc containing asbestiform fibers

Talc containing asbestiform fibers is a type of talc that has been contaminated with asbestos. Exposure to talc containing asbestiform fibers has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Talc containing asbestiform fibers has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is a medication that is used to treat breast cancer. However, long-term use of tamoxifen has been linked to an increased risk of endometrial cancer.

  • Tetrachloroethylene

Tetrachloroethylene, also known as perchloroethylene or "perc," is a chemical that is used in dry cleaning and other industrial processes. Exposure to tetrachloroethylene has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Tetrachloroethylene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Thiotepa

Thiotepa is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat various types of cancer. However, long-term use of thiotepa has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and bladder cancer.

  • Thorium-232 and its decay products

Thorium-232 is a radioactive element that is used in certain types of nuclear reactors. Exposure to thorium-232 and its decay products has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other types of cancer. Thorium-232 and its decay products have been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Tobacco, smokeless

Smokeless tobacco, such as chewing tobacco and snuff, contains various carcinogens and has been linked to an increased risk of oral, pancreatic, and esophageal cancer.

  • Tobacco smoking

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide and is responsible for approximately one-third of all cancer deaths. Tobacco smoke contains more than 70 known carcinogens, including benzene, formaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

  • Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, is a chemical that is used in industrial processes such as metal degreasing and dry cleaning. Exposure to trichloroethylene has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer, liver cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Trichloroethylene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Ultraviolet radiation

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

  • Vinyl bromide

Vinyl bromide is a chemical that is used in the production of certain types of plastics. Exposure to vinyl bromide has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer and angiosarcoma, a rare cancer of the blood vessels. Vinyl bromide has been classified by the IARC as a Group 2A carcinogen.

  • Vinyl chloride

Vinyl chloride is a chemical that is used in the production of certain types of plastics, such as PVC. Exposure to vinyl chloride has been linked to an increased risk of liver cancer, as well as rare cancers of the blood vessels and the brain. Vinyl chloride has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • Wood dust

Exposure to wood dust, which is produced when working with wood, has been linked to an increased risk of nasal cancer and sinonasal cancer. Wood dust has been classified by the IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen.

  • X- and Gamma-radiation

Exposure to X- and Gamma-radiation, which are types of ionizing radiation, has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including leukemia, thyroid cancer, and breast cancer.

  • Xylene

Xylene is a solvent that is used in various industrial processes, such as paint and ink production. Exposure to xylene has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and multiple myeloma. Xylene has been classified by the IARC as a Group 3 carcinogen.

  • Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is a compound that is used in various products, such as sunscreen and cosmetics. While zinc oxide itself is not considered to be a carcinogen, some studies have suggested that exposure to zinc oxide nanoparticles may increase the risk of lung cancer.

image of cancer cells
cancer cells
Overall, exposure to these 100 cancer-causing chemicals and substances has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer. It is important to take measures to minimize exposure to these substances, such as wearing protective gear and following safety guidelines in the workplace, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and using safe and non-toxic products at home. Additionally, regular cancer screenings and check-ups with a healthcare professional can help with early detection and treatment of cancer.


Research and fact-checked:

American Cancer Society - https://www.cancer.org/ National Cancer Institute - https://www.cancer.gov/ Environmental Working Group - https://www.ewg.org/ Occupational Safety and Health Administration - https://www.osha.gov/ World Health Organization - https://www.who.int/en/



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