Cancer is a large group of diseases that could develop in various organs or tissues of the body. In this condition, cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other organs, leading to serious health complications. Several factors may increase the risk of cancer; common risk factors are genetic and environmental factors and the use of household items containing cancer-causing chemicals. Getting rid of these items may help reduce the risk of cancer.

Cleaning products
Formaldehyde is a common carcinogen in cleaning products like dishwashing liquids, carpet cleaners, and fabric softeners. Using these products excessively may put one at a heightened risk of cancer. Alternatively, one can look for cleaning products that are free from or have a lower concentration of formaldehyde. One should also ensure that the area being cleaned is well-ventilated to get rid of harmful gasses released by cleaning products.

Air fresheners
People use air fresheners at home or in the car to mask pungent odors. But this household item contains properties known to cause several health complications. Most air fresheners contain formaldehyde, a colorless gas that works as a preservative. But this gas is a carcinogen linked to cancers of the throat and nose. Formaldehyde is also known to trigger a range of respiratory problems like asthma. One can switch to natural alternatives like essential oils to create pleasant aromas in their home. Additionally, oils derived from rosemary may offer health benefits that help improve mood and control the nervous system.

Artificial sweeteners
Excessive sugar is not great for health, so many consider switching to other alternatives. While healthy options are easily available, people may choose artificial sweeteners that are worse than sugar. These include sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, sorbitol cyclamate, and saccharin may increase the risk of certain cancer types when added to food in large quantities over a long period. One should consider replacing them with sweeteners like stevia, xylitol, bacon syrup, and erythritol, which are naturally sourced and are not refined.

Plastic
Most people use plastic containers to store liquids and food. However, these plastic items contain chemicals that may combine with the stored contents. A common harmful chemical in household plastic items is Bisphenol A, which helps harden plastic in products like water bottles. When one consumes things stored in plastic containers over a long period, the chemical may contribute to the development of cancer. Reusable glass or metal containers are the perfect alternatives to plastic.

Antibacterial soap
Bathing with antibacterial soap is essential to stay clean and hygienic. But while the product eliminates bacteria and germs, it may also increase the risk of cancer. Most antibacterial soaps contain triclosan, an ingredient that may increase the risk of certain types of cancers. These soaps may also increase the chances of infertility and trigger early puberty. One should use plain soap and water to remain germ-free and maintain healthy skin.

Old refrigerators
One may often hold on to an older refrigerator if it still functions well without hiccups. But studies show that older appliances could have carcinogenic PCBs. So it is advisable to swap out the old refrigerator with a new one to reduce the risk of build-up of carcinogenic compounds in the environment. Other household items that should also be replaced include old electrical transformers and fluorescent lighting fixtures.

Non-stick cookware
Most households use non-stick cookware for cooking meals at home. However, these pans may harm overall health. When the cookware is heated, the coating begins to break down at a molecular level. The heated material then releases harmful particles and fluoride-based gasses, some of which are also carcinogenic. So instead of using non-stick cookware, one should consider switching to glass or ceramic pots and pans as they are safer. Further, certain modern non-stick options could be safer as well.

Asbestos insulation
The insulation in many older homes contains asbestos, a known carcinogen. As the insulation deteriorates, the asbestos fibers turn airborne and stick to clothing, shoes, and other household items. Breathing in these fibers increases the risk of developing cancer. People could replace older thermal insulation containing asbestos with alternatives like fiberglass, cellulose, and mineral wood. Other materials like hemp and straw are also popular materials used in insulation that are safer than asbestos. So, if one’s hope is a few decades old, they should check out the insulation and see if it needs to be replaced.