Chemicals That Cause Cancer: Discovering a Contamination in My Own Body

When my cancer returned

I discovered that the level of propylene oxide in my body was 29,000% higher than the safe limit. Read on for my story and how I detoxed.

Adding a Holistic Approach to My Cancer Battle

When my stage 4 cancer returned, I knew I had to throw everything I had at it. I had already endured the grueling process of chemotherapy and other treatments, and this time, I wanted to explore every possible angle. I needed to do more than just fight it with conventional medicine; I wanted to ensure my body was in the best possible state to withstand and overcome this battle.

That’s when I turned to the Riordan Clinic in Overland Park, Kansas—a globally recognized leader in integrative oncology.

I wasn’t abandoning conventional medicine—far from it. I was preparing for a genetically modified T-cell transplant (CAR T-cell therapy), an advanced and promising treatment. But I also understood the importance of a holistic approach—one that would give me every possible advantage. The Riordan Clinic takes an integrative approach, combining conventional treatments with alternative therapies and in-depth diagnostic testing to provide a comprehensive picture of health. For me, this was about more than just surviving—it was about giving my body the best possible chance to heal.

A Surprising Discovery

One of the first steps the Riordan Clinic takes with new patients is a series of comprehensive tests. These tests include full metabolic panels and, notably, a MycoTox Profile from The Great Plains Laboratory, which tests for the presence of various toxins, including mold, in the body. I knew mold was a common issue for many people, especially in cancer patients, whose immune systems are often compromised. What I didn’t expect was the shock I would experience when my results came back.

During my time at Riordan, I had the opportunity to meet many women who were also battling cancer. We would talk openly about our tests and compare results. Most of the women I met had high levels of mold in their bodies, which, while concerning, wasn’t entirely surprising given the prevalence of mold exposure in everyday environments. However, my results were different. While mold was present, I had something far more alarming: exceptionally high levels of propylene oxide.

As I shared my findings with others, it became clear that I was in a unique situation. Despite the variety of patients I met, not one of them had elevated levels of propylene oxide like mine. It led me to wonder—how common is this exposure, really? The more I researched, the more I realized that my exposure was likely occupational, as I couldn’t find a common environmental source that would explain my levels.

To give some context, the safe limit of propylene oxide in the human body is 4 micrograms per gram (ug/g). My test results came back with a staggering 1,196 ug/g—an elevation of 29,800% over the recommended limit. This wasn’t just a little concerning—it was alarming.

What Could Have Caused This?

With such an extraordinarily unique and elevated result, I had to consider where the exposure came from. After a lot of reflection, only two possibilities came to mind:

Textile Manufacturing and Polyester Exposure:

For five years, I ran a textile business that operated a large polyester batting plant within the same building. The facility had no dedicated ventilation system, relying solely on open doors, which meant there was no barrier to prevent off-gassing from the manufacturing process. Polyester batting, while widely used, is a synthetic fiber known to release harmful chemicals, particularly during production.

And yes—propylene oxide plays a key role in the production of polyurethane foams, which are often used alongside polyester in textiles. With constant exposure to these conditions and limited airflow, it’s highly likely that working in such close proximity every day led to elevated levels of toxins in my body, including propylene oxide.

Art Projects Involving Resin:

Over the years, I had also taken part in various art projects that involved the use of resin. Resin releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful when inhaled over extended periods. While my exposure to resin wasn’t as frequent as my work in textiles, it was still another potential source of toxins in my body—something that set me apart from others. As I searched for explanations for my unique test results, my use of resin became a possible contributing factor that many others didn’t share.

Household Exposure

While industrial exposure is the most likely cause of my elevated levels, it's worth noting that off-gassing from synthetic materials—such as polyurethane foam (commonly found in mattresses, furniture, and insulation) and polyester-based products (which make up the majority of modern clothing)—can also release small amounts of propylene oxide over time.

What Is Propylene Oxide?

Propylene oxide is a highly volatile organic compound used in the production of polyurethane foams, polyester resins, and various other industrial chemicals. It’s also used as a fumigant to sterilize medical instruments and foodstuffs and as a chemical intermediate in the production of propylene glycol. Exposure to propylene oxide can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, making it a versatile yet dangerous chemical.

The fact that this compound was present in my body in such large quantities was deeply concerning, especially given its classification as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Propylene oxide can cause genetic mutations and DNA damage, which is particularly concerning for someone like me, who is already dealing with cancer.

Why Is Propylene Oxide Dangerous for Cancer Patients?

One of the most troubling aspects of propylene oxide is its ability to suppress the immune system, which is critical in defending the body against infections and diseases. This suppression is especially dangerous for cancer patients, whose immune systems are already compromised. The immune system plays a vital role in identifying and eliminating cancer cells, so when toxins like propylene oxide weaken this defense, it can lead to serious complications. For cancer patients, maintaining a strong immune response is crucial for both fighting the disease and enduring treatment.

Additionally, propylene oxide is a genotoxic substance, meaning it can damage the genetic information within cells and potentially cause mutations that lead to cancer. This is particularly alarming for those already battling cancer, as the presence of this toxin increases the risk of tumor growth and can make treatment more difficult. Beyond its cancer risks, propylene oxide exposure is linked to respiratory issues, nervous system disorders, and organ damage, all of which can worsen the side effects of cancer treatment. For me, with cancer already ravaging my body, I knew that addressing these toxins was essential. As I prepared for a transplant, I didn’t want to simply "band-aid" my cancer with conventional treatments—I wanted to address the underlying toxicity, giving myself the best chance at a lasting remission and true healing.

Reversing High Levels of toxins in the Body

I set out to address and reverse the elevated levels of propylene oxide in my body, which required a comprehensive approach aimed at detoxification and reducing exposure. Here are the key strategies I used to help significantly lower these toxin levels:

I Reduced My Exposure:

The first and most important step is to eliminate or significantly reduce your exposure to propylene oxide. This means carefully evaluating your environment, especially your workplace or any activities that involve prolonged chemical exposure. In my case, I had already left my job a few months before my cancer returned, and I knew I’d never work with art resin again. It’s unsettling how, in America, workplaces can pose serious health risks with minimal accountability or protection for employees. The company’s VP was diagnosed with stage IV leukemia years earlier, and I recently crossed paths with the retired manager of the batting plant, who was now undergoing cancer treatment. That encounter left me shaken. For anyone battling cancer, especially those in manufacturing, I strongly urge you to take a hard look at your work environment and seriously question if the risk is worth it. Spoiler alert: it rarely is.

I also examined everyday household items for sources of propylene oxide, such as bedding, memory foam toppers, and polyester clothing. Gradually, I replaced these with alternatives made from natural fibers and cotton-based materials.

I used Ozone Therpay and Worked with an Integrative Oncologist:

Dr. Lucas Tims at the Riordan Clinic played a crucial role in my detoxification journey as I sought to address the toxic burden in my body, particularly the alarmingly high levels of propylene oxide I had been exposed to over the years. A major part of my treatment plan involved weekly ozone therapy paired with an ALA drip and glutathione shots. Ozone therapy, known for its ability to boost oxygenation and enhance the body’s detox processes, was instrumental in helping me heal from the damage caused by years of working in a toxic environment. This treatment not only helped improve oxygen delivery to tissues but also stimulated my immune system, giving my body the strength it needed to recover from aggressive cancer treatments. The glutathione injections further supported my body's detoxification efforts by protecting cells from oxidative damage and assisting in the removal of toxins.

While these treatments were highly effective, they were also expensive, costing around $350 per session, adding up to over $1,000 per month. This financial burden highlighted the lack of accountability in workplaces that expose employees to harmful chemicals. I couldn't help but feel frustrated, assuming that my years spent in a toxic environment contributed to my illness, and now I was left to foot the bill for my own recovery. Despite the costs, I viewed ozone therapy as an essential investment in my long-term health, helping me to detoxify and strengthen my immune system for lasting remission.

I Used a Daily Binder:

I took 2 G.I. Detox capsules each morning before eating. This supplement combines activated charcoal and bentonite clay, both renowned for their detoxifying properties. Activated charcoal works by binding to toxins, chemicals, and other harmful substances in the digestive tract, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Bentonite clay, a natural volcanic ash, similarly binds to heavy metals and chemicals, aiding in their removal through the intestines. Together, these ingredients support the body’s detoxification process by absorbing toxins and promoting their safe elimination. Incorporating G.I. Detox into a detox protocol not only helps remove propylene oxide but also effectively targets other harmful substances like mold, making it a powerful ally for anyone dealing with toxic exposures. This helps reduce the overall toxic load on the body, giving the immune system a better chance to recover and thrive.

I Joined an Infrared Sauna Gym:

I became a member of Sweat Theory in Kansas City, MO, where they offer private sauna sessions. Early in my post-transplant treatment, I went 5-6 times a week for 1-hour sessions. Now, two years later, I still go three times a week. Infrared heat penetrates deeply into tissues, promoting the release of stored toxins, including volatile organic compounds found in fat cells. Regular use of the sauna, combined with proper hydration, can help flush out harmful substances like propylene oxide through sweat, making it a valuable part of my ongoing detox regimen. You can see my entire regimen here, which includes other toxins found in my body, such as mold and DEP.

Final Thoughts

Working with an integrative oncologist was an eye-opening experience that completely changed how I view toxin exposure and its impact on health—especially for those already battling illness. Many of us don’t fully understand what cancer is or how it spreads, making it even harder to navigate treatment options effectively.

These days, I get plenty of eye rolls when I bring up toxins, but that doesn’t bother me—I stand by what I’ve learned. After diving into medical studies, research, and my own test results, it’s impossible to ignore the role environmental exposure plays in our overall health.

For anyone facing cancer, minimizing exposure to environmental toxins—like plastics, mold, and synthetic chemicals—shouldn’t be dismissed. It’s been an essential part of both my treatment and recovery.