Studies link allergies to cancer risk

July 12, 2011

The studies determined the immune systems of people with contact allergies may be primed to protect against certain types of cancer, including breast and brain cancers.

Scientists believe their sensitivities may prime the immune system against these cancers.

But people with contact allergies also have higher rates of bladder cancer, which could be due to higher levels of chemical metabolites accumulated in the blood.

Scientists say more research is needed. However, if a link exists, it could lead to understanding how contact allergies can affect cancer development and vice versa.

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