Many everyday substances pose health risks, including some known to cause cancer. Family physician Dr. Li Sihsien highlighted six common carcinogens people may encounter in daily life: aflatoxin, benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), acetaldehyde, and acrylamide. Among these, acrylamide—found in fried foods like French fries, cookies, toasted bread, and coffee—is produced during high-temperature cooking and has been linked to kidney and endometrial cancers. Dr. Li advises minimizing consumption of overly browned foods and opting for lower-temperature cooking methods.
Here’s a breakdown of the six carcinogens:
- Aflatoxin – Found in moldy or expired peanuts, corn, and nuts, aflatoxin is one of the strongest naturally occurring liver cancer-causing agents. Keeping food dry and avoiding moldy products is the best prevention.
- Benzene – Present in cigarette smoke, car exhaust, paints, and solvents, long-term inhalation can damage bone marrow and increase the risk of leukemia and lymphoma. Avoiding enclosed spaces with smoke exposure is crucial.
- Formaldehyde – Common in newly furnished homes, adhesives, and cigarette smoke, chronic exposure may lead to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia. Proper ventilation and using low-formaldehyde materials are recommended.
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) – Produced from charred foods, cigarettes, and vehicle emissions, PAHs are linked to lung and skin cancers. Limiting charred meat and smoke exposure can help reduce risk.
- Acetaldehyde – Generated from alcohol metabolism and cigarette smoke, acetaldehyde is associated with oral and esophageal cancers. People who flush when drinking alcohol should be especially cautious.
- Acrylamide – Forms during high-temperature cooking in foods like French fries, cookies, toasted bread, and coffee. Linked to kidney and endometrial cancers, acrylamide exposure can be reduced by avoiding overly browned foods and using gentler cooking methods.
Dr. Li emphasizes that small lifestyle adjustments—like cooking at lower temperatures, avoiding moldy foods, and reducing exposure to smoke—can significantly lower cancer risk.
