You may have heard of an Institute of Medicine (IOM) report released recently, Breast Cancer and the Environment: A Life Course Approach, discussing environmental impacts on breast cancer risk. The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition is encouraged by the findings of the report - evidence that MBCC has long supported - recognizing the need to further research the role that environmental toxins play in breast cancer risk. MBCC calls for further emphasis on the need to forward health protective policies that remove toxic chemicals linked with breast cancer from consumer products, manufacturing and other sources of exposure.

 

According to the report, chemicals like benzene, 1,3-butadiene and ethylene oxide - found in some workplaces, gasoline fumes, car exhaust and tobacco smoke, have possible links to breast cancer. Additionally, the IOM prioritizes the need for further research on chemicals with hormonal activity, including perfluorinated compounds, bisphenol A, and atrazine (a pesticide) and points out that existing chemical safety research leaves out effects on breast cancer. The report also highlights the need to consider a full-range of research methods, including laboratory experimental studies, given that evidence solely derived from human studies not practical.

 

This report signifies an important shift in perspective within the medical community regarding primary breast cancer prevention, even though advocates have long supported such evidence. Recommendations put forth by the report include: better testing of chemicals for effects on breast cancer risk, "limit or eliminate workplace, consumer, and environmental exposures to chemicals that are plausible contributors to breast cancer risk while considering risks of substitutes," and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke exposures - among others.

 

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition, and many other groups, go further to push for chemical policy reform to ensure that chemicals linked with breast cancer don't find their way into our products, as well as greater consumer product oversight and product component labeling so that companies are more accountable for the chemicals they use. MBCC supports several policy campaigns that advocate for health protective change towards breast cancer prevention - learn more and get involved!

 

For a further scientific analysis of the IOM report, visit Silent Spring Institute's website for their commentary and hear how some of their research was used to inform the report's findings.

 

MBCC envisions a world where needless breast cancer diagnoses are avoided, saving lives. We hope that you, too, find the IOM report encouraging and ask you to join us in our efforts to END the epidemic. MBCC offers many ways for you to be involved.

 

As you know, MBCC depends on the generous contributions of our supporters to continue our advocacy towards prevention. We hope you will consider making a contribution to our year end appeal and sincerely thank you for your on-going support.

 

Wishing You a Healthy Holiday Season,

 

Erin Boles, M.S.W.

Interim Executive Director