Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

Use of Underarm Cosmetic Products in Relation to Risk of Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study

Use of Underarm Cosmetic Products in Relation to Risk of Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study Thumbnail


Abstract

Background
Previous studies on breast cancer (BC), underarm cosmetic products (UCP) and aluminum salts have shown conflicting results. We conducted a 1:1 age-matched case-control study to investigate the risk for BC in relation to self-reported UCP application.

Methods
Self-reported history of UCP use was compared between 209 female BC patients (cases) and 209 healthy controls. Aluminum concentration in breast tissue was measured in 100 cases and 52 controls. Multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for established BC risk factors.

Findings
Use of UCP was significantly associated with risk of BC (p = 0.036). The risk for BC increased by an OR of 3.88 (95% CI 1.03–14.66) in women who reported using UCP's several times daily starting at an age earlier than 30 years. Aluminum in breast tissue was found in both cases and controls and was significantly associated to self-reported UCP use (p = 0.009). Median (interquartile) aluminum concentrations were significantly higher (p = 0.001) in cases than in controls (5.8, 2.3–12.9 versus 3.8, 2.5–5.8 nmol/g).

Interpretation
Frequent use of UCPs may lead to an accumulation of aluminum in breast tissue. More than daily use of UCPs at younger ages may increase the risk of BC.

Citation

(2017). Use of Underarm Cosmetic Products in Relation to Risk of Breast Cancer: A Case-Control Study. EBioMedicine, 79-85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2017.06.005

Acceptance Date Jun 5, 2017
Publication Date Jun 6, 2017
Journal EBioMedicine
Publisher Elsevier
Pages 79-85
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2017.06.005
Keywords Underarm cosmetic products, Aluminum, Breast cancer, Case-control study, Epidemiology
Publisher URL http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352396417302335

Files






Downloadable Citations