London, Apr 8 (IANS): Exposure to chemicals found in food cans, nail varnish and shampoos can trigger early puberty in girls, thus increasing their risk of developing cancer and diabetes, reveals a new study.

The research showed that use of phenols, phthalates and phytoestrogens, used in packaging as well as perfumes, lotions and shampoos can cause harm by interfering with the body's hormones.

"Research has shown that early pubertal development in girls can have adverse social and medical effects, including cancer and diabetes later in life," telegraph.co.uk quoted Dr Mary Wolff, an oncologist at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, as saying.

"Our research shows a connection between chemicals that girls are exposed to on a daily basis and either delayed or early development.

"While more research is needed, these data are an important first step in continuing to evaluate the impact of these common environmental agents in putting girls at risk."

She added, "We believe there are certain periods of vulnerability in the development of the mammary gland, and exposure to these chemicals may influence breast cancer risk in adulthood. Dietary habits may also have an impact. Further study is needed to determine how strong the link is."

The study appears in journal Environmental Health Perspectives.