Hair relaxers, commonly used by many Black women to achieve sleek, straight hair, may pose a significant risk for breast cancer. The Ghana Breast Health Study (GBHS) found that Ghanaian women who use chemical relaxers, especially those who are long-term or former users, have a significantly higher likelihood of developing breast cancer, regardless of the type of tumor. These relaxers, which chemically alter the texture of hair, are used by an estimated 90% or more of women of African descent. In Ghana, nearly all participants in the study reported using relaxers, with 96% of breast cancer patients and 94% of healthy controls indicating use.
A study conducted by the GBHS compared 1,071 breast cancer patients to 2,106 women without the disease, revealing that former users of hair relaxers had more than double the risk of developing breast cancer. Long-term users, as well as those who opted for “gentler” non-lye relaxers, also demonstrated an increased risk. While earlier research suggested that relaxers might elevate the risk of estrogen-driven (ER+) breast cancers, this study, published in *Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention*, found that the heightened risk applied to both ER+ and ER- tumors. This indicates that there may be multiple pathways through which harm occurs.
While the study does not establish direct causation, it highlights growing concerns about the health effects of hair relaxers. A 2022 study in the United States found an association between frequent use of relaxers and an increased risk of uterine cancer, leading to calls for stricter regulations. In Ghana and other African countries where relaxers are widely available, public health experts stress the importance of education on this issue. Researchers are advocating for comprehensive investigations into the ingredients of relaxers and their potential health impacts. Health advocates recommend minimizing the use of these products, opting for natural hairstyles, or choosing less toxic alternatives, emphasizing that awareness is crucial for prevention.
