Global health experts have identified harmful chemicals that may cause cancer in condoms and fake nipples for children.
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning about the discovery of cancer-causing chemicals used in condom production, causing distress among the public.
Using condoms may have cancer risk
WHO reports that the chemical MBT (2-mercaptobenzothiazole) is used in the production of various products such as condoms, fake nipples for children, rubber gloves, and tires. Currently, scientists have confirmed MBT as a cancer-causing chemical. Previously, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a part of WHO, found MBT to be linked to blood cancer and colorectal cancer after inspecting a chemical plant in the UK. According to a report from a WHO study published in The Lancet Oncology, scientists also demonstrated that MBT is a cause of skin allergies in humans.
Prof. Dr. Do Quang Khang, Head of the Department of Material Technology and Environment (Institute of Chemistry), explains that MBT is a substance used to promote the vulcanization process to dry synthetic and natural rubber, enhancing the flexibility of rubber. This substance is only used in the production of rubber boots, vehicle tires, etc., and not for food. Despite this, it has not been conclusively proven that MBT is a direct cause of cancer due to the presence of various other chemicals in the manufacturing process.
Current Condom Quality Not Regulated
Mr. Nguyen Van Tan, Deputy Director General of the General Department of Population - Family Planning, states: “Condoms are currently regulated as ordinary goods, considered not to affect health, so they are not subject to quality control.”
In Vietnam, condoms are classified as group 1 goods, indicating they are products with no potential for harm, designed for proper storage, transportation, and preservation without causing harm to humans, animals, plants, or property. Products in this group are managed according to standards declared and applied by the manufacturer.

Current Condom Quality Not Regulated
However, in 2014, the United Nations Population Fund reported that nearly 50% of condoms in the Vietnamese market were counterfeit, of poor quality, and imported from China. On 12/1, authorities inspected and seized 1 ton of condoms sold by weight in hotels, guesthouses, etc.
Condoms are an essential item, with a high demand for protecting against sexually transmitted infections and being a trusted contraceptive method.
While the potential link between condoms and cancer is not definitively established, it is advisable to opt for high-quality condoms when using contraceptive methods. Additionally, individuals can explore other contemporary contraceptive methods such as spermicidal gel, remote-controlled vas deferens, contraceptive sprays, gene blockers, next-gen contraceptive membranes, and vaccines for contraception in both men and women.

Remote-controlled Vas Deferens
As per Nhat Minh – VN Express
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