Study Links Chemical Hair Relaxers to Increased Cancer Risk: A 166% Surge in Pancreatic Cancer Cases Among Users

New Study Links Chemical Hair Relaxers to Increased Cancer Risks

A recent study from Emory University has raised alarming concerns about the long-term health effects of chemical hair relaxers and straighteners, revealing that their use may increase the risk of developing multiple cancers by as much as 166 percent.

The study, which analyzed data from over 50,000 women participating in the Sister Study—a long-term health investigation focused on breast cancer—found that women who used these products had significantly higher risks of pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Key Findings:

• Women who used hair straighteners or relaxers were found to have a 166% higher risk of pancreatic cancer, a particularly deadly form of the disease due to the lack of effective screening methods.
• The risk of thyroid cancer was elevated by 71%, while non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma saw a 62% increase among users.
• Frequent users—defined as those applying these products more than four times a year—faced even greater risks, with pancreatic cancer risk more than doubling.

The research team followed 46,287 women for an average of 13.1 years, focusing on cancers with at least 100 reported cases during the follow-up period. Participants reported their use of hair straighteners or relaxers within the year prior to joining the study.

Formaldehyde Concerns:
Experts have long been wary of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen often found in hair straightening treatments like keratin and Brazilian blowouts. This chemical can escape as a gas, particularly when heated, leading to potential inhalation risks that range from minor irritations to severe health issues, including various cancers.

The American Cancer Society has linked formaldehyde exposure to cancers of the nose, throat, stomach, and even leukemia. The recent study highlights the urgent need for further investigation into the specific ingredients in these hair products that may contribute to cancer risk.

Demographic Disparities:
The study also revealed significant disparities in product usage among different racial groups. Approximately 66% of Black women, 25% of Hispanic/Latina women, and only 1.3% of non-Hispanic White women reported using hair straighteners or relaxers.

Regulatory Actions:
In response to these findings, several states and the European Union have begun to take action. The FDA proposed a national ban on formaldehyde in hair straighteners, although it has yet to be enacted. Washington state has already passed the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act, which will ban formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in cosmetics starting January 1, 2027.

Conclusion:
As awareness grows regarding the potential dangers of chemical hair treatments, the findings from Emory University underscore the importance of further research and regulatory measures to protect consumers. The study was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, adding to the growing body of evidence concerning the long-term health effects of these widely used products.

For those who prioritize hair care, it may be time to reconsider the safety of chemical relaxers and explore safer alternatives.