Is Spraying Perfume on the Neck Linked to Thyroid Cancer? Fact-Check
Recently, social media has been flooded with claims that spraying perfume on the neck can trigger thyroid cancer. This has caused public concern, given that the neck is a popular pulse point for applying fragrances to prolong their scent. But is there scientific basis to this claim?
Expert from Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Dr. Agil Wahyu Wicaksono, clarified the issue. He stated that the notion of perfume directly causing thyroid cancer has not been scientifically proven.
To date, no studies have directly shown that spraying perfume on the neck is a definitive cause of thyroid cancer. However, Dr. Agil did not deny a link between perfume use and overall thyroid health.
‘Based on a systematic review study, spraying perfume, including on the neck, is associated with thyroid gland disorder risks. However, the connection to thyroid cancer remains hypothetical and unproven,’ Dr. Agil said, as quoted from IPB’s official website.
Concerns about perfume stem from certain chemical ingredients classified as endocrine disruptors, which interfere with hormone systems. Some highlighted substances include:
Exposure to these substances does not automatically cause illness. Health risks depend on exposure levels, frequency of use, individual health conditions, and genetic factors.
Dr. Agil stressed that health effects from perfume use do not occur instantly. Hormone disruptions typically arise from prolonged repeated exposure. The public is advised not to panic but to use fragrances wisely.
Some groups advised to be more cautious about using products containing hormone-disrupting chemicals include:
To minimise health risks without giving up perfume entirely, the following preventive measures are recommended:
In conclusion, although there are risks of hormone disruption from perfume chemicals, the claim that spraying perfume on the neck definitely causes thyroid cancer is not medically verified. Education on proper usage is far more important than baseless fear.