Oncologist Warns of Uterine Cancer Risk from Chemical Hair Straighteners
A 2025 study found frequent use of chemical hair straighteners increases uterine cancer risk by 80%, raising lifetime risk from 1.64% to 4.05% for those using products over four times annually. Oncologist Dr. Kasturi Baruah highlights that these products contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, parabens, and heavy metals, which are hormone disruptors. She warns that rising endometrial cancer cases in India warrant serious attention due to the popularity of such treatments.
A recent 2025 study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicates a significant link between frequent chemical hair straightener use and an increased risk of uterine (endometrial) cancer. Women who use these products more than four times a year face an 80% higher risk, with their lifetime risk increasing to 4.05% compared to 1.64% for non-users. Oncologist Dr. Kasturi Baruah emphasizes that while the numbers may seem small, even a slight increase in risk is crucial, particularly as other health risks like obesity and diabetes are rising in countries like India, where hair treatments are very popular.Dr. Baruah explains that the danger stems from chemicals such as formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, and heavy metals present in many straighteners. Formaldehyde, specifically, is classified as a known cancer-causing agent by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and has prompted warnings from the US FDA. These chemicals can disrupt hormones and are increasingly encountered due to the growing popularity of salon treatments like keratin and chemical straightening. Dr. Baruah also observes a worrying trend of increasing endometrial cancer cases in India, attributing it partly to higher obesity rates and diabetes, underscoring the importance of addressing all potential risk factors seriously.
