Receipts and Cancer: What’s the Risk?
Have you ever wondered what’s in your receipts? If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give it much thought. But you might want to start, especially if you’re concerned about cancer.
A recent study found that nearly 80% of receipts in the US contain chemicals linked to cancer. These chemicals are called endocrine disruptors and can interfere with the body’s natural hormones. This can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer.
The study found the highest levels of endocrine disruptors in receipts from fast-food restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations. These receipts are often coated with BPA, a chemical known to be an endocrine disruptor.
BPA is just one of the many chemicals that can be found in receipts. Other chemicals of concern include BPS, phthalates, and triclosan. These chemicals can disrupt the body’s hormones and increase the risk of cancer.
So, how can you protect yourself from the chemicals in receipts? Here are a few tips:
- If possible, avoid using receipts. If you use a receipt, avoid touching the coated side.
- Wash your hands after handling receipts. This will help to remove any chemicals that may have transferred to your skin.
- Shred receipts before you throw them away. This will help prevent the chemicals from leaching into the environment.
Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about the chemicals in receipts. They can help you assess your risk and recommend reducing your exposure.
Here is some additional information about the chemicals mentioned in the study:
- BPA (bisphenol A): BPA is a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastic and is also found in some receipts. It is an endocrine disruptor, which means that it can interfere with the body’s hormones. This can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer.
- BPS (bisphenol S): BPS is a chemical similar to BPA. It is also used to make polycarbonate plastic and is found in some receipts. BPS is an endocrine disruptor, which means that it can interfere with the body’s hormones. This can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible. They are also found in some receipts. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with the body’s hormones, leading to a variety of health problems, including cancer.
- Triclosan: Triclosan is a chemical used in some soaps, detergents, and toothpaste and is also found in some receipts. It is an antimicrobial agent, which means that it kills bacteria. However, it is also an endocrine disruptor, which can interfere with the body’s hormones. This can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer.
It is probably a good idea to be aware of the chemicals in receipts and to take steps to protect yourself from unnecessary toxic exposure. California has filed various lawsuits over toxic landfills, buildings, and unsafe water.
