Antimony and Breast Cancer
There is preliminary evidence that antimony plays a role in the etiology of BRCA1-associated breast cancer (Kotsopoulos, 2012). The exposure can be from a high-level acute exposure or even a chronic low-level exposure. Both are associated with an increased risk for breast cancer.
Symptoms of Exposure
Antimony exposure can cause respiratory irritation, pneumoconiosis, antimony spots on the skin (add a link here to an image), and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea. Direct contact with antimony may cause redness and itchy skin rash (dermatitis), coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Also, headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and insomnia.
Antimony Sources
Antimony is found in the metal ends of many garden hoses, cosmetics, solders, bullets, sheet and pipe metal, and bearings, and is a prominent additive in chlorine and bromine-containing fire retardants used commercially and in many household products.
Forms of Antimony
Antimony oxide in flame retardants is used in memory foam, textiles, paper, rubber materials, upholstery, carpets, sleeping bags, automobile headers, and fabrics. Whereas, antimony trisulphide is used in the production of explosives, pigments, antimony salts, ruby-colored glass, safety matches, military ammunition, explosives, and fireworks. Antimony trioxide is a chemical used in the manufacture of some polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, which is used to make food and beverage containers.
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Protect Your Body
Minerals
Mineral 950
Recommended Medical Lab Test
A simple lab test that I use frequently to help my clients determine whether they have elevated antimony is the Toxic Element Clearance Profile (gdx.net).
Antimony Summary Checklist
O Remove antimony sources from your home to avoid exposure
O Eat a whole plant foods diet to help detoxify the body.
O Take detoxifying supplements, when exposed to antimony.