Concerns frequently arise regarding the potential health implications of everyday items, including the clothes worn daily. Many individuals wonder if textiles might contain substances that could pose risks to human well-being, specifically in relation to cancer development. This article explores the current scientific understanding of chemicals found in clothing and their possible connections to health outcomes.
Chemicals Present in Garments
Clothing manufacturing uses various chemical additives for color, texture, and performance. Azo dyes, widely used for vibrant colors, can break down into aromatic amines, which are associated with health concerns including cancer.
Formaldehyde is applied to fabrics for wrinkle resistance, mildew prevention, and a “permanent press” finish. Phthalates soften plastics, found in plastisol prints, artificial leather, and waterproof coatings. Certain flame retardants, like brominated or organophosphate compounds, are incorporated into some garments, particularly children’s sleepwear, to reduce flammability. These compounds have been linked to various health risks, including neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are common for water and stain repellency in outerwear and athletic wear, persisting in the environment and human body. Even natural fibers like cotton can carry pesticide residues, such as glyphosate, from cultivation.
How Chemicals Enter the Body
Chemicals in clothing can interact with the human body through several pathways. Skin absorption is a primary route, where substances pass through the skin upon direct contact. This process can be enhanced when skin is warm, moist, or subjected to friction, such as during physical activity or prolonged wear of tight garments.
Inhalation is another pathway, as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can off-gas from new or stored clothing, contributing to indoor air quality. These airborne chemicals can be breathed in, potentially causing respiratory issues. Accidental ingestion is also a possibility, particularly for infants who might mouth clothing items, or through hand-to-mouth transfer from dust containing textile fibers.
Current Scientific Understanding
Establishing a direct link between low-level chemical exposure from clothing and cancer in the general population presents challenges for scientific research. Factors such as long latency periods for cancer development, the presence of multiple exposure sources in daily life, and the typically low levels of chemical release from textiles make definitive conclusions complex. While some chemicals in clothing, like certain aromatic amines from azo dyes, formaldehyde, and specific PFAS, are potential carcinogens at higher exposure levels, typical exposure from wearing clothes is generally low.
Regulatory frameworks in various regions limit exposure to harmful substances in textiles. For example, the European Union’s REACH Regulation restricts or bans certain azo dyes, phthalates, and formaldehyde levels. These regulations differentiate between a chemical’s inherent hazard—its potential to cause harm—and the actual risk, which is the likelihood of harm occurring given a specific exposure level. The presence of a substance in clothing does not automatically guarantee harm.
The scientific community continues to investigate the long-term effects of cumulative low-level chemical exposures. While vigilance is warranted and research is ongoing for specific chemicals, a widespread, definitive link between common clothing use and cancer in the general population has not been conclusively established. The focus remains on understanding the balance between potential hazards and actual exposure risks.
Practical Steps for Consumers
Consumers can take several steps to reduce potential chemical exposure from clothing. Washing new garments before wearing them is a widely recommended practice. This helps remove excess dyes, finishes, and manufacturing residues that might be present on the fabric surface. Using a thorough wash cycle, possibly with an extra rinse, can be beneficial.
When purchasing clothing, consumers can look for certifications indicating reduced chemical use. Certifications such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100 ensure products have been tested for harmful substances, providing reassurance about chemical safety. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifies textiles made from organic fibers under strict environmental and social criteria, limiting the use of hazardous chemicals throughout the production process. Bluesign certification also signifies that textiles are produced with minimal environmental impact and reduced chemical use.
Airing out new clothes, especially if they have a noticeable chemical smell, can help dissipate volatile compounds. Washing hands after handling new textiles or before eating can further minimize potential exposure through ingestion. These measures serve as proactive ways to reduce the amount of chemicals that might come into contact with the body.