A colorectal cancer specialist has highlighted two everyday bathroom items she has removed from her home due to their potential link to cancer.
Understanding the actions we can take to maintain our health and lower the risk of diseases is crucial.
Colon cancer remains a significant health concern in the United States, with projections indicating 152,810 new colorectal cancer cases and approximately 53,000 deaths from the disease in 2024.
Ranking as the third most prevalent cancer diagnosis and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, any advice on minimizing risk is highly valued.
Dr. Karen Zaghiyan, a Los Angeles-based colon cancer surgeon, recently shared on Instagram two bathroom staples she avoids due to their association with cancer risk.
In her video, Dr. Zaghiyan described how “mouthwash can cause a disturbance in the oral microbiome, which can then cause a disturbance in the gut bacteria as well.”
Felix Hospitals notes that recent research ‘suggests that using mouthwash daily might elevate the risk of colorectal cancer.’
This is attributed to the presence of alcohol and antibacterial agents in mouthwash, which can disrupt beneficial oral chemicals.
Additionally, Dr. Zaghiyan has eliminated wet wipes from her household.
“You will never find me purchasing wet wipes. I see so many patients come in with perianal dermatitis [a rash around your anus] and skin rashes from wet wipe use,” she stated.
“I never use them personally and I never use them on my children.”
Experts caution that the moisture from wet wipes can foster harmful bacteria growth, potentially linked to colon cancer.
The Huffington Post cites Dr. Alex Elias, another colon surgeon in California, who said, “The use of wet wipes is a common cause of perianal dermatitis.”
“The irritation caused by wet wipes can be secondary to certain ingredients and preservatives, the disruption of good bacteria, and even the residual moisture left behind.”
The NHS lists symptoms of colon cancer as blood in the stool, abdominal pain, a lump in the stomach, and bloating.
If these symptoms are concerning and you require confidential support, the American Cancer Society is available at 1-800-227-2345 or through their live chat service, accessible 24/7 throughout the year.