In today’s health-obsessed society, most people are hyper aware of what could potentially harm their families. Cigarette smoke and asbestos residue lurking in the siding of an older home, for example, are two easily recognizable carcinogens. An educated, healthy minded person would never purposely expose themselves or their children to such dangerous substances. But according to an American Cancer Society alert issued in July 2010, millions of people are unknowingly exposing themselves to carcinogens and harmful conditions. The report lifts the disguise from 20 (twenty!) potential hazards.

Some of the “new” carcinogens are unsurprising, and almost impossible to pronounce! Take the chemical tetrachloroethylene, for example. Never heard the word? You’ve most likely been inhaling it without knowing, as it’s most often used in chemical dry cleaning. To avoid any further contact, simply invest in an at-home dry cleaning laundry system – or insist on only visiting organic dry cleaning facilities, where all chemicals have been eliminated. The study also highlights that if you happen to live in an apartment or condo located above or adjacent to a dry cleaning facility, you might want to think about moving. Higher occurrences of liver cancer, cervical cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma were reported among these types of tenants.

Steering clear of toxic substances may seem simple – but what if avoiding certain chemicals – like titanium dioxide, found in many mass-produced sunscreens and cosmetics – is the culprit? According to the report, experts have mixed feelings about titanium dioxide. It’s been linked to several different types of cancer in animals who actually ingested it, where humans slather it on skin. Beyond that, the actual danger a painful sunburn poses for humans may far outweigh any potential danger found in the titanium dioxide in sunscreen. Still, the American Cancer Society suggests investing in organic sun blocks or non-chemical forms of sun protection like sun hats and beach umbrellas.

While these findings may be cause for concern – and perhaps reason for government intervention down the road to protect consumers – the steadfast rule of staying healthy remains. Eat right, stay active, abstain from smoking – and despite the world becoming more polluted everyday, you’ll still decrease your cancer risk.