Oncologist Rejects Pillow-Cancer Claim, Recommends Replacing Pillows Every 2 Years
Updated
Updated · The Indian Express · Jun 21
Oncologist Rejects Pillow-Cancer Claim, Recommends Replacing Pillows Every 2 Years
1 articles · Updated · The Indian Express · Jun 21
Summary
Dr. Anil Thakwani said there is no scientific evidence that pillows raise cancer risk, pushing back on a viral claim that old pillows are a “breeding house for cancer.”
Dust, skin cells, sweat, oils, mites and sometimes fungi can build up over time, he said, but those contaminants are linked to allergies, asthma flare-ups and skin irritation rather than cancer.
Thakwani said social-media health warnings often exaggerate dangers without medical backing, even when they stem from real hygiene issues in bedding and indoor air.
For healthier sleep conditions, he advised washing pillow covers regularly, keeping rooms ventilated and replacing pillows about every 2 years instead of treating them as a cancer risk.