Does deodorant cause breast cancer?

Is there a link between deodorant and breast cancer?

Some people worry about the chemicals in deodorants and antiperspirants. One idea is that traces of aluminium could act like the hormone oestrogen, which can fuel the growth of some breast cancer cells.

The Royal Marsden, an NHS cancer hospital in London, says deodorants are considered safe to use. It says there are no conclusive studies linking the chemicals in antiperspirants and deodorants to breast cancer, and that aluminium has not been found to have oestrogen-like effects or to cause breast cancer.

Sources: The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust: Busting breast cancer myths; The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust: Everything you need to know about breast cancer

What does the NHS say makes breast cancer more likely?

The NHS says anyone can get breast cancer and it is not always clear what causes it. You might be more likely to get it if you:

• are over 50
• have dense breast tissue
• have close family who have had breast or ovarian cancer – you may have inherited a faulty gene, such as a faulty BRCA gene
• have certain breast conditions, such as benign breast disease, ductal carcinoma in situ or lobular carcinoma in situ
• have higher levels of hormones such as oestrogen, which can be linked to your periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, the contraceptive pill or HRT

The NHS also links many breast cancers to lifestyle, such as smoking, and suggests cutting down on alcohol and losing weight if you are overweight. Deodorant and antiperspirant are not on its list.

Source: NHS: Causes of breast cancer in women

Why can’t you wear deodorant to a mammogram?

NHS England asks you not to use deodorant, antiperspirant or talcum powder on the day of breast screening, as this may affect the mammogram. Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust explains that talc and spray-on deodorant may show up as white specks on the X-ray.

Advice differs a little across the UK. NHS inform in Scotland says not to use talc or spray-on deodorant before screening, but that roll-on deodorant is fine. If you are unsure, ask your local breast screening service.

Sources: NHS: What happens at your breast screening appointment; Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust: Breast screening FAQs; NHS inform (Scotland): Breast screening

Which breast changes should you get checked?

Whatever products you use, the NHS says to see a GP or doctor if you notice:

• a lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit
• a change in the skin of your breast, such as dimpling (it may look like orange peel)
• a change in skin colour – on white skin it may look red, on black or brown skin it may look darker than usual
• a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• nipple discharge (if you are not pregnant or breastfeeding), which may have blood in it
• a change in the shape or look of your nipple, such as it turning inwards or a rash on it

Some of these changes, including breast lumps, are very common and can be caused by other conditions. Having them does not definitely mean you have breast cancer, but it is important to get checked. In the UK, do not wait for your next screening appointment.

Sources: NHS: Symptoms of breast cancer in women; NHS: Who breast screening is for