A new study has found that continual use of cleaning products may predispose certain women to a higher risk for breast cancer. The findings, published in the journal Environmental Health, are the first to connect the risk of breast cancer with cleaning products.

To arrive at their conclusions, researchers surveyed over 1500 women, half of whom were diagnosed with breast cancer (787), and half of whom were not (721). The incidence of breast cancer doubled in women who reported the highest use of chemical cleaners (the same ones used to help control odor, mold and mildew) when compared to those who reported with the lowest usage.

Interestingly, when the women were questioned about their perceptions regarding pollutants and breast cancer, those who believed that chemicals were indeed a significant contributor to illness were also more likely to be the most frequent users of them.

The study was not without its own possible shortcomings. The authors note that the potential for bias was significant, mainly in light of the fact that women who are diagnosed with breast cancer often try to recall some incident or lifestyle choice that may have contributed to their condition. As a consequence, they tend to recall these past events with accuracy and may even overestimate their level of exposure.

Furthermore, the actual experience of contracting breast cancer can have a profound influence on a person's views regarding its root causes, and may encourage a person to discount other viable explanations, including heredity. For this reason, more research needs to be conducted in order to further study any possible connection between cleaning products and breast cancer, including ways to help reduce any potential bias where self-reporting is involved.

Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women behind skin cancer, affecting one in eight women in this country. It is also the second most common cause of cancer death behind lung cancer. Though breast cancer rates have been falling, it remains a significant public health issue and a prominent cause for concern amongst many women.

The exact cause of breast cancer is still unknown, and experts are unclear as to why some people are more susceptible than others. However, doctors have identified several risk factors that may increase a person's risk for developing breast cancer. Some of these are beyond a person's control, and include their age, heredity, and certain developmental and physiological factors.

Other factors, however, are within a person's control, and include obesity, hormone replacement therapy, taking birth control, smoking, and drinking alcohol.

It is therefore likely that breast cancer results from a complex interaction between genetics and environment. With this in mind, it might not be so unthinkable that exposure to chemicals might play a role, though there is no solid evidence at this time that truly supports this link. Until that time, it may be advisable to exercise discretion and a little common sense.

If you have questions or concerns, speak with your physician. For more information about breast cancer, visit the website for the National Cancer Institute.