Trending mis/disinformation: “Did you know the birth control pill is now classified as a Group 1 carcinogen — the same category as cigarettes and asbestos?!”

Summary
This video reflects a persistent TikTok trend that frames hormonal birth control as dangerous by citing the IARC’s “Group 1 carcinogen” classification without explaining what that label actually means. This video, along with other similar videos, leaves out their well-documented protective effects against ovarian and endometrial cancers. It also frames the classification as a new discovery and implies that the risk is comparable to asbestos and cigarettes. By relying on selective information and fear-based comparisons, this trend distorts cancer risk and can undermine informed, person-centered contraceptive decision-making.

For more information and talking points for discussing cancer and birth control: