Carcinogens are better known to refer to substances capable of causing cancer in living tissues. Looking at our class notes, we learn that the rate of cancer increased significantly between 1900 and 1990. People can inherit cancer genetically or through natural exposure. It is said and believed that the substances we consume daily can expose us to cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, environmental factors can include a wide range of exposures, such as nutrition, medical treatments, workplace exposure, pollution, household exposures, and natural exposures. Scientists often experiment on animals and cell cultures to determine possible causes of different types of cancer. I don't feel like new chemicals are subjected to appropriate or sufficient testing before being released to the market. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay One such chemical that might unfortunately be overlooked is arsenic. Arsenic in drinking water can cause liver, bladder, lung, skin and kidney cancer. Yet the scariest reality to me is the number of chemicals and "toxins" that are currently permeating our food for the sole purpose of saving companies money by extending the shelf life as long as they can . An infamous example of a chemical added to our foods that deserves greater alarm is brominated vegetable oil, aka “BVO.” Brominated vegetable oil is a common additive in many bottled sodas, sports drinks, and many citrus-flavored drinks. Unfortunately, BVO is known to raise cholesterol levels, and repeated consumption can also cause significant liver and kidney damage. Another particular group of chemicals that should really be left out are benzoate preservatives, also known informally as "BHT, BHA, TBHQ." These chemicals have clear links to hormonal imbalance, hives, increased cancer risk, hyperactivity and asthma. You can find these chemicals “on the prowl” in your favorite cereals, varieties of gum, mixed nuts, some brands of butter, and even packages of raw meat. Aflaxtoxins, aminobiphenyl, asbestos, and azathiorprine are just a few other dangerous inorganic substances used in the most common everyday products that cause cancer. These products make up an ever-growing list and include names like Johnson and Johnson baby powder, Ajax, Lysol, Oscar Mayer beef franks and Crest toothpaste, etc. As studies show, carcinogens are no laughing matter. Keep in mind: This is just a sample.Get a personalized article now from our expert editors.Get a Custom Essay I find the number of chemicals being introduced into our environment unwittingly both discouraging and sickening. thorough scientific tests are carried out. Cancer is a disease that affects many families and, tragically, it is often diagnosed in individuals far too late for treatment. I have a close friend who I consider family; her sister, who was 15 at the time, was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer. If only we could stop and care more about the chemicals we use every day. Substances..