Surprising Cancer Triggers: 35 Things You Might Not Expect
Cancer can be influenced by a wide range of factors, not just genetics or smoking. Many everyday habits and environmental exposures can quietly increase your risk. Here are 35 unexpected things that have been linked to cancer:
1. Processed Meats
Sausages, hot dogs, and bacon contain preservatives like nitrates, which may increase colorectal cancer risk.
2. Overcooked Meats
Grilling or frying meat at high temperatures can create carcinogenic chemicals like heterocyclic amines (HCAs).
3. Artificial Sweeteners
Some studies suggest that certain artificial sweeteners may alter gut bacteria or promote inflammation.
4. Talcum Powder (used in the genital area)
Some studies have linked long-term use of talc in this area to ovarian cancer.
5. Air Fresheners and Scented Candles
These can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which may be harmful in high exposure.
6. Sitting Too Much
A sedentary lifestyle is associated with higher risks of certain cancers like colon, breast, and endometrial.
7. Lack of Sleep
Chronic sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and disrupt hormone regulation.
8. Night Shift Work
Disruption to circadian rhythms is linked to increased risk of breast and prostate cancer.
9. Alcohol
Even moderate drinking is a known risk factor for cancers of the breast, liver, mouth, and esophagus.
10. Plastic Containers (Especially When Heated)
Heating plastic can release chemicals like BPA or phthalates, which may act as hormone disruptors.
11. Hair Dyes
Some older or darker permanent dyes have been linked to blood cancers in hairdressers and frequent users.
12. Tanning Beds
They emit harmful UV radiation that can increase the risk of skin cancers, including deadly melanoma.
13. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
A sexually transmitted virus that’s a leading cause of cervical and other cancers.
14. Obesity
Excess body fat increases estrogen levels and inflammation, raising cancer risk.
15. Stress
Chronic stress weakens the immune system and may influence tumor growth indirectly.
16. Microwave Popcorn Bags
Some bags are coated with PFOA, a chemical linked to cancer.
17. Poor Oral Hygiene
Gum disease and chronic inflammation in the mouth have been associated with higher cancer risk.
18. Burned Toast or Fried Potatoes
They can contain acrylamide, a chemical formed during high-temperature cooking that may be carcinogenic.
19. Indoor Pollution (e.g., mold, radon, fumes)
Radon gas and prolonged exposure to mold or chemicals indoors are significant risks.
20. Lack of Fiber
A low-fiber diet may increase the risk of colon cancer.
21. Cell Phones (Debated)
Some studies have raised concerns about long-term exposure to radiofrequency radiation.
22. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Linked to increased breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women when used long-term.
23. Nail Polish & Removers
Some contain formaldehyde or other chemicals linked to cancer with chronic exposure.
24. Dry Cleaning Chemicals
The solvent perchloroethylene (PERC) used in dry cleaning is a probable human carcinogen.
25. Arsenic in Water or Rice
Chronic exposure to arsenic (even at low levels) can increase cancer risk over time.
26. High Calcium Intake (Supplements)
Over-supplementation may increase risk of prostate cancer in some men.
27. Sunburns
Severe sunburns, especially in childhood, significantly raise the risk of skin cancers.
28. Flame Retardants
Found in furniture and electronics, these can disrupt hormones and may be linked to cancer.
29. Hair Straightening Products
Some chemical relaxers have been linked to uterine and breast cancer.
30. Long-Term Use of Antiperspirants
Some believe that aluminum-based compounds may be linked to breast cancer (though still debated).
31. Chronic Inflammation
Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can increase cancer risk.
32. Pesticides and Herbicides
Certain agricultural chemicals (like glyphosate) have been linked to lymphoma and other cancers.
33. Secondhand Smoke
Even if you don’t smoke, exposure to others’ smoke still raises your cancer risk.
34. Frequent Flying (Radiation Exposure)
Pilots and frequent flyers are exposed to higher cosmic radiation, increasing cancer risk.
35. Too Many CT Scans or X-rays
Excessive exposure to diagnostic radiation may slightly raise lifetime cancer risk.
Cancer is complex, and not all risks are avoidable — but awareness is key. Small lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and avoiding long-term exposure to harmful substances can go a long way in reducing your risk. Stay informed and take care of your body — it’s the only one you’ve got.