We all likely take earwax for granted—and prefer to not think about it. However, the under-appreciated substance does more than keep your ears clean and free of debris—scientists have discovered that it contains a goldmine of health data. Beyond that, earwax might be able to signal diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Cerumen is the technical term for earwax. Ceruminous and sebaceous glands secrete a substance in the external auditory canal that mixes with sweat, hair, dust, and other debris. The purpose of cerumen is to keep the ears lubricated and clean and create a barrier to discourage the entry of bugs and other foreign objects that might infiltrate and wreak havoc.
