A cancer patient’s viral TikTok video is drawing attention to a hidden danger of chemotherapy — the risk it may pose to others in the same household, especially through shared bathrooms.
Misty Myers is currently fighting stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer. In her video, she urges people to be careful when living with someone undergoing chemotherapy, explaining that chemicals from treatment can linger in bodily fluids — and potentially harm others.
“It’s recommended that the person receiving treatment use a separate toilet from everyone else in the house,” said Myers, a mother of eight, to Newsner.
If a separate bathroom isn’t available, she advises flushing three times with the lid closed and cleaning the toilet thoroughly after each use.
Chemotherapy drugs are powerful. After treatment, traces of those drugs stay in urine, stool, vomit, and sweat for up to 48 hours.
Flushing with the lid up can cause tiny droplets to become airborne, landing on surfaces like the toilet seat, floor, or nearby counters — putting others at risk.
“Even indirect contact with chemo waste can cause dizziness, skin rashes, nausea, and vomiting,” Myers warned. “Long-term exposure may increase the risk of cancer and fertility problems, even for others in the home.”
What the Experts Say
Medical professionals agree that precautions should be taken — not just in hospitals, but also at home.
According to OncoLink, a cancer information site from Penn Medicine, the risks of casual exposure to chemotherapy waste are not fully known. But experts say it’s best to avoid exposure whenever possible, especially for children, pregnant women, or those with weakened immune systems.
In healthcare settings, staff use gloves, gowns, and special containers when handling chemo-related waste. But at home, many families don’t realize those same risks still apply.
This warning comes as cancer rates increase. BMJ Oncology estimates that the U.S. will see 2 million new cancer cases in 2024, with half of patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation.
While chemo helps save lives, it also affects healthy cells — which is why side effects like hair loss, fatigue, and weakened immunity are common. In rare cases, serious complications can occur if patients aren’t tested for specific enzyme deficiencies before treatment.
Be Cautious, Even at Home
Myers’ message is simple: take chemo safety seriously — even outside the hospital.
“Clean with Clorox. Use gloves if needed. And if you can’t use a separate bathroom, at least disinfect after every use,” she said.
“It’s not just about protecting yourself. It’s about keeping your family safe too.”
Her warning serves as a reminder that cancer treatment doesn’t just impact the patient — it also requires awareness and care from everyone around them.
