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Sunscreen chemicals cause health problems
Swiss
researchers from the Institute of Pharmacology and
Toxicology at the University of Zurich have discovered
that some sunscreens contain chemicals that mimic the
effect of the human hormone estrogen.
The
substances, benzophenon, octylmethoxycinnamate and
methylbenzilidene camphor can interfere with the normal
functions of estrogen and have been linked to breast
cancer in humans. Evidence that they are a health
concern from sunscreens is still lacking, but, as a
precaution, the Danish government has ordered the
removal of many well-known sunscreen creams from the
market including Elisabeth Arden, Biotherm and Nivea
Sun.
The Body
shop has also decided to remove its own brand from the
shelves. The Dutch Cosmetic Association is currently
drawing up a list of all creams containing these
substances. In Britain, the Cosmetic Toiletry &
Perfumery Association, which represents sunscreen
manufacturers, has done a study, not yet published, that
shows no effect from these chemicals in rats.
Although
the Swiss researchers are not advising people to ditch
sunscreens completely, they do suggest that sunblocks
like zinc oxide might make a healthier alternative.
Anyone worried about their own sunscreen should consult
the contents on the side of packaging.
For more
information: Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology
http://www.unizh.ch/phar/devtox/news.htm.
Coastal Guide News, 05.09.01
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