Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in a new study of mice stipulated that Tricosan a common chemical used in household products could have adverse effect on the colon and also promote colonic cancer.
The study led by senior author Guodong Zhang, titled "A common antimicrobial additive increases colonic inflammation and colitis-associated colon tumorigenesis in mice" was published in Science Translational Medicine on May 30.
Triclosan is a high-volume chemical used as an antimicrobal in dozens of everyday house products. The chemical which is regulated by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can be found in clothing, kitchenware, furniture, and toys.
According to medicaldaily.com, the research found that the antibacterial and antifungal properties found in Triclosan makes it useful in toothpaste, soaps, mouthwashes as well as detergents.
However, for the first time the study suggests that Triclosan could be harmful to gut health including colon cancer.
The researchers tested the effect of Tricloson on genetically engineered mice who were predisposed to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and in all, Triclosan led to colonic inflammation and colon tumorigenesis.
However, the scientist suggested that since the disease in the mice was made worse after exposure to Tricloson, it is needful for human patients to reduce being exposed to the ingredient.
While we do not ingest the ingredient directly, it can seep in through the gums and into the bloodstream while brushing. Triclosan can also accumulate on toothbrush bristles, following someone who may have switched to triclosan-free toothpaste but did not change their toothbrush.
Owing to the fact that the chemical is widely used, the researchers are calling for further scrutiny and evaluation of the impact the chemical has on human health.
