Frequent usage of face lotion during pregnancy and breastfeeding may be associated with an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumours in their sons

In July 2018 researchers from the USA published the results of their study to assess the association between personal care product usage during pregnancy and breastfeeding with the risk of testicular germ cell tumours in their male offspring. Personal care product usage was assessed in 527 mothers whose sons had developed testicular germ cell tumours, with 562 mothers whose sons did not develop testicular germ cell tumours acting as controls. It is known that endocrine disrupting chemicals found in personal care products are able to cross the placenta, be present in breast milk, and are capable of inducing reproductive tract abnormalities. Results showed that face lotion usage of more than once a week during pregnancy and breastfeeding was associated with a significantly increased risk of testicular germ cell tumours in their male offspring. None of the other products examined (perfume, hairspray, nail polish, hair dye, permanent wave, body lotion, deodorant, sunscreen) appeared to be associated with the risk of testicular germ cell tumours.

Ghazarian AA et al. Maternal use of personal care products during pregnancy and risk of testicular germ cell tumors in sons. Environ Res. 2018 Jul;164:109-113.

Leave a Reply