Common chemicals causing cancer: study

The NIH said that people with higher measures of exposure to formaldehyde are at increased risk for certain types of rare cancers, including those affecting the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

The chemical is widely used to make resins for household items, including paper product coatings, plastics and textile finishes.  It is also commonly used as a preservative in medical laboratories, mortuaries and consumer products including some hair straightening products.