What are carcinogens?

Carcinogens are substances or exposures that are known or suspected to cause cancer. They can be found in a variety of sources, including tobacco smoke, certain chemicals, radiation, and certain types of infections. Some common examples of carcinogens include:

Asbestos

Benzene

Formaldehyde

Solar radiation

Tobacco smoke

Wood dust

It's important to be aware of potential carcinogens and to take steps to avoid exposure to them whenever possible. Some carcinogens are regulated by government agencies and have warnings or labels indicating that they may cause cancer.

Here are a few more examples of substances or exposures that are known or suspected to be carcinogens:

Arsenic

Beryllium

Chromium

Ethylene oxide

Nickel

Radon gas

Vinyl chloride

X-rays

Aflatoxins (toxins produced by certain fungi that can contaminate foods such as peanuts, corn, and wheat)

Alcohol (ethanol)

Chloroform

Dioxins

Mustard gas

Pesticides (such as herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation (exposure to UV radiation is a major cause of skin cancer)

It's important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other substances or exposures that may be carcinogenic. Some substances that are classified as carcinogens may also have non-carcinogenic effects at low levels of exposure, and the risks and benefits of these substances should be carefully considered when making decisions about their use.

It's worth noting that not all substances or exposures that have the potential to cause cancer are necessarily carcinogenic at all levels of exposure. The likelihood of a substance or exposure causing cancer may depend on the amount of exposure, the duration of exposure, and other factors such as an individual's genetics and overall health.