Children, the environment and cancer

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What you can do about cancer and the environment

To reduce exposure to cancer-causing substances in the environment you could ask your local government to put policies in place that will specifically protect both children and adults from exposure to environmental contaminants. For example:

* by-laws to eliminate the use of ornamental pesticides on lawns and gardens

* policies that would encourage manufacturers to clearly label all products, including cosmetics, household cleaning products and other products, so you can make informed choices.

There are some precautions you can take to reduce your exposure to environmental contaminants:

* Eliminate or limit exposure to potentially harmful and cancer-causing substances by buying non-toxic materials (e.g. non-toxic glue and paint).

* Follow manufacturers’ directions about using and storing hazardous chemicals safely.

* Wear protective clothing while handling hazardous products and wash your hands immediately afterwards. It’s especially important to wash the hands of children frequently as they are more likely to put their hands in their mouths.

* Until scientific evidence can clarify the link between exposure to magnetic fields from high voltage power lines and cancer risk, you may not want your children to play directly beneath them for long periods of time on a regular basis.

* Read more about radon gas and asbestos.

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