Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/376498
Abby's Magazine - September / October 2014 | Page 33 "The greatest concern is over [substances] that are not easily broken down, and that can accumulate and be stored in the body's fat cells, including breast fat," states BCERF, a breast cancer research group at Cornell University, which adds that more studies are needed to better understand this problem. The link between hormonal effects in the body and pesticides is part of an environmental debate that stirs arguments among scientists. "We are losing a winnable war against cancer," says Samuel Epstein, MD, a recognized authority in the environmental field. He cites a "very strong body of scientific evidence incriminating the role of a variety of industrial technolog[ies]…the public at large has been and continues to be unknowingly and involuntarily exposed to avoidable carcinogens." To avoid pollutants as much as possible, reach for organic items at your natural foods store and use all- natural cosmetics and cleaning supplies based on natural ingredients. Fighting for a cleaner environment can also make a difference in your neighborhood. Nuition and Canc According to Matthias Rath, MD (www.dr-rath-research. org), failing to pay attention to the way nutrients like L-lysine and vitamin C affect cancer risk has led to many of our problems with this group of diseases. He believes that consuming large amounts of these nutrients are vital for supporting better health. The Cell Phone Question Meanwhile, a bevy of researchers suspect a link between cancer and cell phones. Because these phones operate on radio frequencies, some worry that using a cell phone or being near a cell phone tower can increase the risk of brain cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, research does not yet show a connection between cell phones or their towers and cancer, although the society notes that the industry is too new for long-term studies to have been done. But experts like Joseph Mercola, MD, director of Optimal Wellness Center in Illinois, says, "Most individuals have no clue of the harm they are exposing themselves" by using cell phones. He recommends using a hands-free adapter to get the phone away from your head. The cancer dragon still lurks, threatening health. But you can arm yourself with the knowledge to keep that dragon at bay. SUSPECTED DIRECT CAUSES OF CANCER 35% 30% 10% 10% 5% 4% 2% 2% 1.5% Remember, none of these factors exist by themselves. Several factors usually interact to cause cancer. And some experts believe lack of exercise plays a much larger role in cancer risk. Danger At Work Your job can be hazardous to your health. Many toxic chemicals in the workplace have been linked to an in- creased risk of cancer. The worst offenders include: • Arsenic – used in brickmaking, ceramics, glass, leather tanning, petroleum • Asbestos – may affect demolition workers, tire makers, shipbuilders • Benzene – chemical production, leather-working, painting, woodworking • Cadmium – chemical production, electroplating, met- alwork Another possible occupational source of carcinogens are computer chip makers. IBM and chemical suppli- ers are currently in court fighting charges their "clean rooms," areas where circuit boards and hard drives are manufactured, expose workers to carcinogenic chemi- cals. The lawsuit claims that IBM employees suffer an extremely high rate of brain cancer.