3 years ago
16 July, 2019
Our Head of Science, Dr Margaret Wexler says: We have long been concerned that exposure to certain chemicals – in particular, endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) – is making us more vulnerable to breast cancer. Incidence rates have increased by 25% in the UK over the last 20 years and are predicted to rise by a further 2% between 2014 and 2035.
The committee’s report demands urgent Government action by highlighting the inadequacy of today’s public health measures with regards to EDCs, which include certain types of harmful flame retardant. The report highlights current UK fire safety regulations which result in the widespread use of flame retardants in UK furniture and furnishings. We support fully the committee’s recommendation that these regulations are reformed, as a matter of urgency,.
EDCs are used in many everyday items such as toys, plastics, furnishings, clothing, cosmetics and cleaning products. They have the ability to interfere with or mimic normal hormonal functions, which may result in harmful health effects including an increase in breast cancer risk. Evidence suggests that chemicals such as these can affect babies still in the womb, can be passed on via breast milk, and make small children highly vulnerable.
Environmental Audit Committee report- Toxic Chemicals in Everyday life
Our written submission to the Environmental Audit Committee’s inquiry into Toxic chemicals
Our background briefing on Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
Our background briefing on Flame Retardants
Notes to Editors
Breast Cancer UK’s mission is to prevent breast cancer through scientific research, collaboration, education and policy change. We educate and raise awareness of the preventable risk factors for breast cancer and provide practical information to help people reduce their risk. We campaign for policies that support prevention and we fund scientific research to better understand and address preventable risk factors.
30 November 2020
Breast Cancer UK calls on Government to give the new National Institute for Health Protection responsibilities to regulate harmful chemicals Today, Breast Cancer UK alongside our friends at ChemTrust,...
Read full story20 March 2020
We are living during a difficult time with the global pandemic of COVID-19. We are especially concerned for those of us who are living with pre-existing health conditions so it’s...
Read full story1 December 2015
Breast Cancer UK response to the Consultation on the draft Opinion of the Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis on the Annex XV dossier proposing restrictions on BPA in thermal paper. ...
Read full storyA £10 donation today can help fund our PHD studentships to carry out world-class animal free research into the causes of breast cancer.
New easy way for you to donate to Breast Cancer UK:
Donate £5 please text BCUK001 to 70970