Breast cancer and chemicals

This article identifies the chemical hazards of breast feeding. Advocates for women to take control of their own health. List of resources.

Discusses a holistic approach to breast health and breast cancer prevention that accounts for the evidence that breast cancer is caused not only by genetic predisposition, but also by environmental and lifestyle factors.

A free 24-page downloadable guide to peer-reviewed research on breast cancer prevention.

Explores the occupational exposures in producing plastics and health risks to workers, particularly women, who make up a large part of the workforce. Demonstrates that workers are exposed to chemicals that have been identified as mammary carcinogens and endocrine disrupting chemicals, and that the work environment is heavily contaminated with dust and fumes. Finds that, as a consequence, plastics workers have a body burden of environmental contaminants that far exceeds that found in the general public.

Reports on a study seeking to contribute to a better understanding of cancer causation, particularly for work-related breast cancer. Found a statistically significant association of breast cancer risk with work in jobs classified as highly-exposed; 10 years of work in such jobs was estimated to increase breast cancer risk by 42 percent. For many specific sectors, with small numbers of women workers, there were too few people to show significant results, but for work in agriculture, metal-related manufacturing, automotive plastics, food canning operations, bars and casino work, statistically significant excesses were observed.

Written by science journalist Florence Williams who discusses the latest science from the fields of anthropology, biology, and medicine as it relates to breast health. Investigates the life cycle of the breast from puberty to pregnancy to menopause. Examines examines how our breasts and our environment are intricately related because breasts are made up of fat and glandular tissue and more easily absorb chemical toxins from the environment than do many other parts of our body. 

Reviews the book Breasts: A Natural and Unnatural History by Florence Williams. Breasts examines how our breasts and our environment are intricately related because breasts are made up of fat and glandular tissue and more easily absorb chemical toxins from the environment than do many other parts of our body.

A campaign whose goal  is to educate young Canadian women about the toxins in cosmetic and personal care products that are detrimental to human health and can increase the risk of cancer and other health-related disorders. Seeks also to provide people with the tools they need to create personal change and to influence national legislative reform. 

Features a discussion between six researchers and/or service providers across Canada and the U.S. who work with women in the areas of mental health, substance use and trauma/violence. Following the initial presentations, participants asked questions and heard these questions discussed in a real-time, round-table format.

This webinar is part of the larger project "Assisting Women with Mental Health, Substance Use and Trauma-Related Concerns with Trauma-Informed Approaches" and follows an earlier webinar featuring Dr. Vivian Brown and Dr. Laurie Drabble.