A post shared on Facebook on October 25, 2022, by “Griote” on their account claims that chemical products used for hair relaxing are linked to a higher risk of uterine cancer in women, as compared to other hair products like dyes or perms.
This information is partially true and warrants caution. For frequent users, the risk is noted to be 4.05%.
According to a study published by the NIH, Black women are more exposed to chemicals intended for hair straightening. This information is supported by some American scientific research. However, in the Central African Republic, this has not been confirmed as no studies or confirmations are in place. Nonetheless, specialists advise caution for those using these products.
Dr. Kosh-Komba Jess-Elio, a cancerologist, oncologist, and pediatrician at the university pediatric hospital, told AFC: “There is indeed a factor that may increase the risk of cancer, not only uterine cancer as these effects are diverse.”
“There are also industrial shampoos that use other substances, chemical ingredients that are harmful to the body. For example, carcinogenic formaldehydes, internationally recognized, sometimes found in certain shampoos, can pose risks with use,” he added.
Several media outlets have addressed this topic according to scientific studies. For instance, the website Futura-Science consulted Alexandra White, the lead author of a study, who explained: “1.64% of women who have never used hair relaxer products will not develop uterine cancer before age 70; 4.05% is the percentage of those who use it.”
This information has resurfaced online following the October cancer awareness campaign, known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to AFC’s verification, while hair relaxing may increase the risk of uterine cancer based on some American research, this information is partially true. However, no studies have been conducted in the Central African Republic on this matter.
By P. Florence Yalla / M. Paule Vopiade / Fouf Gbrebaye AFC
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