Which of the following hair care products are suspected to increase breast cancer risk for
Black women?
a. Relaxers
b. Dark hair dye
c. Deep conditioners that contain cholesterol or placenta
d. Products that contain coconut oil
Answer: b. Regular use of dark hair dyes has been found to increase the risk of breast cancer by 1.5 times for Black women.
While the regular use of relaxers has not been found to increase the risk for breast cancer, one study showed a trend between lye- based relaxers and a specific type of breast cancer. More study is needed to look at this possible relationship.
Black women who had sisters with breast cancer were found in another study to have increased risk of breast cancer if they regularly used hair relaxers themselves.
October is Breast Health Awareness Month and we at Buy from a Black Woman are excited to have Dr. Q as this month's guest blogger. Throughout the month, she will be offering ideas and facts about breast health and disease to our community. For more information about Dr. Q and Delaware Breast Care, visit delawarebreastcare.com.
Check back every Tuesday & Friday in October for a new post from Dr. Q on The Buy From A Black Woman Directory Blog!