Triclosan Research Paper

Triclosan is an artificial chemical with antimicrobial properties that eradicate or hinder the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. This chemical was first made known n 1972 when it was used in hospitals for surgical scrubs. The overall population is subjected to Triclosan because it is widely used in many products that people use on a daily basis. For example Triclosan is found in “soaps, cosmetics, therapeutics and plastics” (http://www.pnas.org/content/111/48/17200.full). In addition, people are also subjected to Triclosan by waterborne contamination. Products that are used containing Triclosan, such as soap or detergents are washed down the drain affecting water life. Triclosan has also been connected to many health issues
Scientists believe that as a result of liver fibrosis advancing puts them in jeopardy for acquiring hepatocellular cancer. Scientist also conducted tumor studies on the mice with using Triclosan and a tumor initiator resulted in Triclosan being a promoter of hepatocellular cancer development. Studies that were done on a large number of people found Triclosan to be in their urine, serum and in addition it has also been found in breast milk. The long-term use of Triclosan and its effects on people and the environment are unknown. As a result of this study done on mice could also be pertinent to humans (http://www.pnas.org/content/111/48/17200.full).

I was never aware of the potential negative effects of this chemical. I never thought about the toothpaste that my family and I were using could possible cause harmful effects on the environment and us. I think scientists need to conduct more studies now and also prior to products being approved for human use. There is several times that consumer’s use a product to later find out that it causes cancer. I believe that this chemical can cause more harm than good, should be used sparingly and only when good old fashion soap and water is not