Four Things You Think Cause Cancer but Do Not

Back in the 2000s, you might have read that plastic contains diethylhexyl adipate (DEHA), a supposed carcinogen. The US Environmental Protection Agency says DEHA 'cannot reasonably be anticipated to cause cancer.' Likewise, the International Agency for Research on Cancer does not list DEHA as a carcinogen.
Many people are afraid to microwave foods in plastic containers and plastic wrap under the mistaken impression that it will release cancer-causing chemicals into their food. The US Food and Drug Administration strictly regulates plastic food containers and approves the ones marked 'microwave safe.'

Some people still believe microwave cooking makes food radioactive. Not so, according to the ACS. The group explains, 'Microwave ovens can cook food, but they do not otherwise change the chemical or molecular structure of it. 'Microwave ovens are designed so that the microwaves are contained within the oven itself,' the ACS states. When used according to instructions, there is no evidence they pose a health risk to people.

Cavities you had filled a many years ago are likely to have mercury in them. Too much mercury can be bad for your brain, but it is not a carcinogen. Those mercury fillings also included silver, tin, and copper. According to the American Dental Association, the combination of these metals makes the fillings, known as dental amalgams, completely safe.