News & Resources
Do some hair products increase the risk of uterine, ovarian and breast cancers?
Dr. Alexandra White, Epidemiologist with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences led the third installment of our mini-webinar series. She discussed how the presence of certain ingredients in hair products can increase the rates of cancer. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (such as phthalates and parabens) found in hair products can mimic hormones and interfere with hormonal processes. And other chemicals like aromatic amines and formaldehyde have been linked to carcinogenic effects.
Issue #2
Please see our MI-CARES updates!
Issue #1
Introducing the MI-CARES Bulletin!
Hair products can cause uterine cancer
Using chemical hair straighteners increases the risk of getting cancer in the uterus. Check out this infographic to learn more about this issue and how you can stay healthy.
Colon cancer is increasing in young adults
Colon cancer has become more common in people under age 50. Check out this infographic to learn more about the causes for this and how you can stay healthy.
Microplastics in the environment
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that have a diameter of less than 5 mm - about 1/4 the size of a penny. They end up just about everywhere in the environment: in soil, water, indoor air, food, and more. Dr. John Meeker from the University of Michigan School of Public Health discusses sources of microplastics, how they get into the environment, and what that might mean for human health.
The Rise of Colon Cancer Rates Among Young Adults
While rates of colon cancer have been decreasing in people over the age of 50, they are increasing in younger people. 1 in every 10 colon cancers is now diagnosed in somebody under the age of 50. Colon cancer is preventable if caught early. This webinar, presented by Dr. Elena Stoffel from University of Michigan’s Rogel Cancer Center, explores possible causes for this trend and ways to stay healthy.
From outside to inside
Every day you’re exposed to plastics and chemicals in products and the environment.
Do you know which things can get into your body? Check out this infographic to test your knowledge now!
University of Michigan recruiting subjects for study that showcases contaminant exposure (WDIV Channel 4 News)
Over the years in Michigan, we've seen many situations where people have been exposed to contaminants in the environment that can harm their health which includes lead and PFAS. Now a statewide study is in the works to better understand the impact of that exposure. The study is called MI-CARES.
Volunteers needed for University of Michigan study of link between environment, risk of health problems (Fox 2 Detroit)
The University of Michigan is seeking volunteers for a long-term study on how the environment impacts the risk of developing health problems, such as cancer.
U-M researchers to track cancer risk from environmental exposures (The University Record)
A new study from researchers at the University of Michigan's School of Public Health and Rogel Cancer Center will describe and quantify the impact of known and suspected environmental exposures on cancer risk. The program, called MI-CARES, or Michigan Cancer and Research on the Environment Study, is funded through a $13 million grant from the National Cancer Institute.
What causes cancer in Michigan? U-M study hopes to find out. (mlive.com)
The study seeks to follow about 100,000 volunteers over the next six years through the completion of annual surveys. The extensive questionnaires will gather information including past and current residency, family health history, personal care and hygiene product use, diet, sleep quality, and sun exposure.
With $13M grant, U-M researchers will track cancer risk from environmental exposures (rogelcancercenter.org)
Heavy metals like lead, industrial pollution from steel mills, coal-fired power plants or oil refineries, “forever chemicals” called PFAS that do not break down in the environment. How much are Michigan residents exposed to these environmental contaminants and what does this mean for their risk of developing cancer?