Most likely or definitely true
False/misinformation
We’re not sure yet
Exposure to pesticides can increase the risk of developing cancer.
Pesticides are typically used in food production and to treat insect infestation. Mosquitos, ticks, rats, and mice can carry diseases, and […]
Burning scented candles emits cancer-causing chemicals.
Burning scented candles could lead to cancer-causing exposures through wax and wicks. Some aromatherapy candles are made of paraffin, which is a petroleum byproduct […]
Shampoo with formaldehyde is a carcinogen.
Many hair care products, such as shampoos and leave-in conditioners, contain formaldehyde or other variations, such as formalin and methylene glycol. When these products are heated, […]
Inhalation of diesel exhaust can cause cancer.
Diesel is a type of fuel derived from crude oil and is used in most large engines (such as trucks, trains, buses, construction equipment, and ships). […]
There is no such thing as a safe or healthy tan, and getting a base tan cannot prevent sunburn (AAD). Tanning increases your risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma […]
People who fly frequently, like pilots and flight attendants, are at higher risk for cancer.
Air crew are exposed to higher levels of radiation (specifically cosmic ionizing radiation, […]
Interior or exterior house painting is associated with cancer.
Paint chemicals contain thousands of chemical compounds. The main organic solvents used in paints are toluene, xylene, aliphatic compounds, ketones, alcohols, esters, […]
Exposure to asbestos causes cancer.
Asbestos was a construction material (used primarily in insulation) and can be found in buildings built before 2000.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) […]
Exposure to formaldehyde can cause cancer.
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable, strong-smelling chemical that is used in building materials and in the production of many household products. It is used in pressed-wood products (such […]
Radon gas causes cancer.
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that, after long-term exposure, can lead to lung cancer. Radon breaks down into radioactive elements in the air, which are absorbed into the body.
Radon […]