Understanding Carcinogens. Substance considered/suspected to be causing cancers.
■ IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) of the WHO maintains different groups of carcinogens based on current scientific evidence for carcinogenicity. The list includes;
| Group | Description |
| Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans | Enough evidence to conclude that it can cause cancer in humans |
| Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans | Strong evidence that it can cause cancer in c. humans, but at present it is not conclusive |
| Group 2B Possibly carcinogenic to humans | Some evidence that it can cause cancer in humans but at present it is far from conclusive. |
Source: IARC and Europa Scientific Committees toolbox (Accessed on 28th September 2020)
■ Remember carcinogens do not cause cancer at all times/circumstances. The list describes the level of confidence that something can cause cancer; not how likely it will cause cancer
■ The public has been conditioned to think chemicals when they think of cancers. The truth is that many other substances are listed in Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans) by the IARC.
Substances in Group 1 that would surprise you!
- Alcohol” c Drinks (Beer; Wine, Whisky etc)
- Indoor & Outdoor Pollution
- Wood-dust
- Processed Meat
- Areca Nut (Supari)