Carcinogen is a word back in the news after it was announced the World Health Organisation (WHO) and its partners are considering whether food and drink additive aspartame can cause cancer.
The WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer could announce next month that the ingredient, which can be found in cola and chewing gum, could be “possibly carcinogenic to humans”.
The food industry and regulators are taking a keen interest in the judgment which is intended to assess whether something is a potential hazard or not, based on all the published evidence.
The result would have ramifications for the food industry and its regulators, and it is set to be revealed on July 14.
Here is what you need to know about carcinogens.
What is a carcinogen?
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, a carcinogen is a substance, organism, or agent capable of causing cancer.
These can be things that occur naturally, such as ultraviolet light, or manmade substances, like tobacco.
But being exposed to a carcinogen doesn’t mean that you’ll get cancer.
“Your chance of getting sick depends on many things,” Web MD writes. “How much you've been exposed to it is part of it. Your genes also play a role.”
To determine whether something is a carcinogen or not, researchers can complete animal tests and lab tests on humans with results compared.
What are carcinogens that are already recognised?
WebMD has put forward the following as carcinogens.
Tobacco
At least 70 chemicals in cigarette smoking are known to cause cancer.
Asbestos
The insulation product is known to be deadly and should be removed by an expert if it is in your home.
Ultraviolet
UV rays can damage skin cells. Humans can be exposed by the sun or in artificial ways, such as tanning beds.
Formaldehyde
A chemical used in many household products from plywood to some fabrics. The risk can be reduced by airing out your home.
Alcohol
The more you drink, the greater risk of getting cancer.
Processed meat
Bacon, salami, pepperoni, and sausages are recognised causes of colon cancer and your chances are increased the more you eat.
Engine fumes
Exposure to exhaust fumes, especially from diesel cars, can cause lung cancer and other types of the disease. Pollution can also be a factor in poor air quality and associated with cancer.
