Does plastic in the microwave cause cancer?

Does plastic in the microwave cause cancer ?
I just put a plastic cup in the microwave to melt the butter that was in it.
I did this to spread more butter on my popcorn.
I need to know if this is a health hazard ?
my home ec, science and health teachers all said you shouldn't put plastic in the microwave because it can release cancer causing toxins..Is this true ?

YES!! YOUR TEACHERS ARE ABSOLUTLY CORRECT!! the next time you want to melt butter to put on your popcorn... I recomend using a glass cup instead of a plastic one!! - keep healthy!! =D

Dear itsangie,
There has been no person diagnosed with cancer specifically from this but plastics that are not recommended for the microwave do emit chemicals that could essentially cause cancer. Even plastic wrap should not touch the food while microwaving. Use only containers for the microwave to be safe. But to date there hasn't been anyone with specific cancer from this...I do believe that you would have to do a lot of microwaving with unsafe plastic for many, many years. So don't worry if you've done it a few times, you'll be fine. Just be more careful in the future.
Sue...good luck

yes it does cause cancer. I used to use plastic plates in the microwave when I heated up my dinner but now I know better...my dad told me it causes cancer. also, dont freeze water bottles in the freezer with water, that causes cancer too.

I don't know.. o.o I HOPNOT! because I love it, and if I don't eat if like ever.. then ill be sad. lol but I don't eat it every day, or week, or month.. xD maybe once in a while. BUT It's so god! WAAA I WANT TO LIVE!!!

These people say that putting plastic in the microwave causes cancer for sure do not know what they are talking about. There is no evidence that microwaving plastic gives you cancer but it probably isn't very healthy.