An Instagram doctor has revealed the horrifying reason people should get rid of their plastic shower curtain – claiming it could give you cancer.

Dr Scott Noorda recently uploaded a reel to his social media account, where he has 20,000 followers(@dr .scottnoorda), which has racked up 4,900 likes.

In the video, he alleges that when curtains made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are heated up by hot water, this releases harmful chemicals, which could cause a long list of health issues, such as damage to the immune system, fertility problems, and other serious illnesses.

The 41-year-old doctor from Utah, US, recommends swapping your curtains out to avoid problems.

“Most people use their plastic shower curtain every single day without any idea that it could be causing not only things like headaches and irritation, but also potentially contributing to major issues like infertility and an increased risk of cancer,” Dr Scott told NeedToKnow.co.uk.

”Plastic shower curtains are often made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a type of plastic that contains harmful chemicals.”

In the viral video, the doctor added “Get a fabric shower curtain and ditch the plastic one ASAP.

“The chemicals have been linked to so many health issues.”

He goes on to explain the variety of chemicals that can he claims can be found in such products, including dioxins, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA) and

Dr Noorda said: “[These are] a group of chemicals that are known to be cancer-causing.

“They can also damage your immune system and reproductive system.

“They can interfere with your hormones and have been linked to reproductive problems, developmental problems, and cancer.”

Exposure to such chemicals could leave people with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, loss of coordination and irritation in your ears, nose or throat, according to the doctor.

He advises to bin the plastic due to “rising prevalence of health issues like infertility and cancer”.

When it comes to choosing your a curtain alternative, Dr Scott has given a few tips, too.

He said: “Look for a fabric curtain that is made from a natural machine-washable material, such as cotton or linen.

“Avoid curtains that are made with PVC or other harmful chemicals.

“Consider a glass shower door as a more permanent and sustainable option.

“People need to know that common, everyday items could be decreasing their quality of life.

“It’s especially tragic when it’s such an inexpensive and easy thing to change.”

Social media users have been left stunned by Dr Noorda’s reel.

One user commented: “Thank you for this excellent information!!!”

Another commented “Yes, I was wondering the same about kids bath toys and bath mats,” to which the doctor replied “Yes! Best to avoid!”

Another person added: “Ain’t nobody got time for that.” [sic]

“Any suggestions for recycling my plastic shower curtain liner? I hate to put it in the trash and the landfill. Also what about the nonslip bathtub mat. Is it releasing the same bad chemicals?,” asked someone else.

The doctor replied: “I don’t have any recycling ideas, but maybe someone else who sees this will. I am not sure what your non-slip bath mat is made out of, but if it is PVC/plastic, then yes, that is very likely releasing the same chemicals.”

ENDS