Q: I heard that using certain kinds of deodorant can increase the risk for breast cancer. Is that true?
Deodorants and antiperspirants are not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. (However, aluminum in antiperspirants does have a positive association with the development of dementia.) There are several myths about breast cancer, such as the idea that wearing underwire bras, or the radiation from mammograms or x-rays increases your risk. Both are myths, with no link to an increased breast cancer risk.
Derrick J. Beech, MD
General Surgery Surgical Oncology
Cancer Treatment Specialist
411 Huku Lii Pl, Ste 304
Kihei, HI 96753