Top 10 Dangerous Carcinogens
The meaning of the word carcinogen means a particular substance that's known to cause cancer/increase chances of getting cancer.
A prime example of a common carcinogen, UV radiation is mainly found in sunlight and is known to elevate chances of getting skin cancer with extended exposure. Even small concentrations can cause harm.
Other known complications include sunburn, cataracts, and various adverse effects on the eyes, skin, and immune system. While it's a good source of vitamin D and has other benefits, it is also harmful with long-term exposure.
One of the most harmful carcinogens found in oils, gasoline, etc. Benzene is mostly responsible for the production of various chemicals and pesticides. Most of this substance is consumed via tobacco smoke and vehicles, though other sources also exist but often in small amounts.
Exposure to benzene increases risks for certain cancers and other health complications, specifically harming the bone marrow and potentially various vital body functions. Any concentration of this substance is harmful to health, including tiny amounts, which are considered hazardous in both humans and animals. Prolonged exposure can possibly lead to death via severe complications regardless of the concentration level.
One of the most produced substances in the industry, acetaldehyde is found in everyday food and beverages such as coffee, artificial flavors, and a wide range of other sources, including inside buildings. Generally, it is not very toxic in low concentrations, but long-term exposure may lead to complications at certain concentrations, typically triggering common symptoms.
In higher concentrations, it may lead to more serious complications such as fatigue, IQ loss, and multiple organ damage. It is also shown to be associated with certain cancers and has the capability to damage DNA.
This type of carcinogen is considered poisonous and is often found in various foods in very low concentrations, most commonly on rice, seeds, and grains such as wheat. It should be known this type of carcinogen can potentially disrupt development and cause cancer when exposed.
Considering it's a very carcinogenic substance, types of toxins related to this substance, such as aflatoxin B1, are even capable of penetrating skin. This substance is often consumed in relatively low doses with no effects. In very high concentrations, severe health complications are expected to occur. For those who are curious, the name originates from Aspergillus, a very toxic mold that produces this carcinogenic substance.
This harmful substance is commonly used in various construction materials. Inhalation of asbestos dust is famously known to cause harmful health effects in all forms. Classified as a dangerous substance, it not only causes lung cancer but also a lung disease called asbestosis, caused by exposure to the substance, often in high concentrations and/or prolonged exposure.
Effects mostly consist of scarring of lung tissues accompanied by coughing and shortness of breath. Asbestos exposure further accelerates the chances of lung cancer. Fortunately, the use of asbestos is banned in most countries, though it is still present in older structures.
TDCPP stands for tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate. This chemical is mostly used as a flame retardant and pesticide. It is often applied to furniture and various products. As it is commonly used in various countries, especially the USA, it is found everywhere, specifically in dense urban areas.
TDCPP is known for causing adverse health effects, birth defects, significantly reduced sperm count, and increased chances of cancer. It affects development in both animals and humans. This only affects individuals who have been exposed long-term and/or to concentrated doses of this chemical.
It is widely known that smoking tobacco is harmful to health, as it contains thousands of chemicals, many of which are classified as carcinogens. When exposed to tobacco smoke, it causes a wide range of health problems and diseases. Tobacco is not only responsible for causing lung cancer but also various other cancers.
It is a known fact that over a billion individuals have smoked at some point in their lives. Tobacco and smoking are responsible for causing millions of deaths worldwide annually, making it one of the main preventable causes of death.
This popular material is used in various everyday products (e.g., paint, wood, smoking products) and in construction. The use of this substance is mass-produced to the point that it is almost unavoidable and present everywhere. Traces of formaldehyde are also found in space.
Fortunately, low consistent doses of this substance are generally not toxic. However, in higher concentrations, it may lead to moderate health consequences (e.g., difficulty breathing, coughing). Research indicates this substance is known to cause certain cancers with prolonged exposure, specifically blood cancer, which poses a higher risk for those working in industrial workforces.
Kepone is considered one of the most mass-produced and hazardous substances, to the point that it has been banned in most countries due to inconsistent care of the substance. It harms both wildlife and humans significantly.
Exposure symptoms commonly include tremors, ataxia, convulsions, and multiple problems specifically relating to the eyes, as well as causing cancer.
Classified as a toxic carcinogen, ethylene dibromide is typically used for pesticides but is also found in the ocean. If consumed in certain concentrations, it may potentially cause irritability and some cancers in humans with prolonged exposure.
However, the effects apply more to various animals, specifically rodents, and it is considered fatal in animals if consumed in higher doses.
