Under-arm sprays in link to tumours

Scientists have discovered the strongest link yet between antiperspirants and Britain's soaring rate of breast cancer.

They detected chemicals in breast tumours which are commonly used in under-arm sprays, make-up and foods. The preservatives, called parabens, are absorbed through skin, a study found.

Britons spend £400million a year on products containing parabens.

Although there is no direct evidence that the chemicals lead to cancer, the scientist leading the research says more work is needed to see if they should be used.

Dr Philippa Darbre, of Reading University, pointed to the potential risks of long-term deodorant use and of excessive use by teenagers. She said: 'Parabens are used as preservatives in thousands of cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products but this is the first study to show their accumulation in human tissues.'

The number of breast cancer cases in Britain has doubled in 25 years, with almost 13,000 deaths a year - one of the world's worst rates.

However, the cosmetics industry and cancer experts urged people not to panic. The Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association said 96 per cent of deodorants and anti-perspirants used in Britain do not contain parabens.

Cancer Research UK added that 'any notional risk' was insignificant compared with dangers such as obesity