Night Shift Linked to Cancer

WHO cancer agency ranks them in same category as DDT

(NEWSER) - The evidence linking cell phones and other wireless devices to cancer seems to be getting stronger: An international team of scientists has concluded cell phones are "possibly carcinogenic to humans," reports AFP . After reviewing scores of published studies on the issue, the International Agency for Research on Cancer—an arm of the World Health Organization—ranked cell phones in category 2B, the same as DDT and gasoline engine exhaust. More»

(NEWSER) - Tanning beds have been upgraded from a probable carcinogen to a definite cause of cancer by World Health Organization experts, Newsday reports. The scientists analyzed over 20 studies and promptly moved the beds and other sources of ultraviolet radiation into their top category of cancer risks. They concluded that using tanning beds before age 30 raises a person's skin cancer risk by 75%. More»

UV lamps raise concerns, but some say not to worry

(NEWSER) - Gel manicures, which take less time to dry and more time to chip than traditional manicures, are increasing in popularity—but are they safe? In order to dry the polish, gel manicure clients put their hands under ultraviolet lamps for as long as 10 minutes—about twice as long as traditional manicure clients do. Two women with repeated exposure to UV nail lamps, both of whom ended up developing skin cancer on the backs of their hands, were studied in a 2009 medical journal article that concluded that the lamps are "a risk factor." A dermatologist tells the Washington Post that "artificial UV light does elevate your risk for developing skin cancer," adding that nail salon clients could use sunscreen to cut down on their risk. More»

Although not in levels higher than EPA standards: study

(NEWSER) - Rice: It seems so innocent, but a new study finds that eating it can expose you to arsenic. Chronic high exposure to the chemical has been linked to cancers and other health problems, but scientists are also growing concerned about low-dose exposures. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable because links have been found between arsenic exposure and low birth weight, Time reports. The study tested the urine of 229 pregnant women for arsenic concentration. More»

It wants FDA to tighten standards

(NEWSER) - Apple juice and grape juice have levels of arsenic that could raise kids' risk of cancer, according to an investigation by Consumer Reports . The study of 88 samples of fruit juice bought in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut found that 10% had arsenic levels that exceeded standards set for federal drinking water. In addition, 25% exceeded the levels of lead deemed safe for bottled water. More»