Excessive Use of Perfumes Linked to Cancer Risk, Experts Warn

Leading Nigerian medical professionals have raised alarms over the potential health risks associated with the excessive use of perfumes, deodorants, and body sprays that contain harmful chemicals. In interviews with Punch Healthwise, experts warned that frequent use of products with endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, aluminium, triclosan, and bisphenol A could lead to serious health problems, including various forms of cancer.

Professor Andrew Uloko, a Professor of Medicine and Endocrinology at Bayero University Kano, explained that these chemicals, commonly used as preservatives or to enhance fragrance, can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. He noted that such disruption could result in both short- and long-term health consequences. Short-term effects include allergic reactions, skin irritation, respiratory distress, sneezing, and choking. Long-term use, however, has been linked to fertility issues, thyroid dysfunction, early puberty, and an increased risk of hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast and prostate cancer. Metabolic conditions like obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes are also potential risks.

Uloko emphasized that while women are at higher risk due to their higher usage of beauty products, men are not exempt. He warned that some of the long-term health conditions associated with these chemicals, such as cancer and diabetes, may not be reversible even after discontinuing use. He called for stronger regulatory frameworks from agencies like NAFDAC and SON to monitor the chemical composition of cosmetic products and urged consumers to seek out natural and organic alternatives. “Look for labels that say ‘free of parabens and phthalates.’ Prefer natural ingredients, and cut down on overall usage,” he advised.

Echoing these concerns, Professor Dasetima Altraide, President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, noted that endocrine-disrupting chemicals in perfumes and cosmetics are capable of interfering with hormonal systems, leading to health complications including menstrual irregularities, fertility challenges, early puberty, and thyroid issues. He advised consumers to choose fragrance-free or certified organic products to reduce exposure.

Both experts highlighted the inadequate regulation of cosmetic and fragrance products in Nigeria as a significant concern. They warned that if unchecked, the influx of unregulated products could contribute to a surge in non-communicable diseases such as cancer, infertility, and metabolic disorders. They stressed the urgent need for public education and stricter control over harmful substances in consumer products, warning that continued negligence could have severe public health consequences.