A common bathroom product that is a cancer risk factor?

A new scientific study on a widely used oral hygiene product raises controversy again And its potential harmful effects on healthHe explains
daily Mail. Listerine Cool Mint We all have a bottle at home (or almost), and we automatically use it for fresh breath and a healthy mouth. But could this daily habit hide an unexpected danger?

Researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, investigated this question. Their conclusions, recently published, cast a pall over the pond. According to their study, daily use of Listerine Cool Mint for three months would enhance… The proliferation of two types of bacteria linked to cancer From the esophagus, colon and rectum.

Listerine Cool Mint and its effect on microorganisms in the mouth

The study by Professor Chris Kenyon's team initially aims to evaluate Effect of daily mouthwash on the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) In gay men. During this work the researchers made a serendipitous discovery. The 59 participants were divided into two groups: one used Listerine Cool Mint daily for three months, followed by three months using a placebo (a product that has no effect), and vice versa for the other group.

By analyzing the oral flora of the participants, scientists found A significant increase in two specific bacterial species : Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus. These two bacteria have already been linked to the development of some types of cancer. The hypothesis put forward by the researchers is this The alcohol in Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash can upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouthThus promoting the proliferation of these harmful bacteria.

Should we give up mouthwash permanently?

Faced with this question, Professor Kenyon is cautious.
He stresses that the study relates only to Listerine Cool Mint and that this work should be replicated with other alcohol-containing mouthwashes to draw general conclusions.. He also qualifies his observations by specifying that “Most people should not use it“, We advise people who want to do this to prefer alcohol-free formulations and limit their use to a few days a week.

On the part of the manufacturer Kenvue, owner of the Listerine brand, we refute the conclusions of the study. The company highlights “Lack of important controls in the design of the experiment“The methodology is considered insufficient to”Draw conclusions about the potential impact on human health“.

A risk to consider, but an incentive to be vigilant

It is difficult to make a final decision based on a single study. However, this work revives the debate on Possible side effects of mouthwash that contains alcohol On oral health and general health.

Until more research confirms or refutes these findings, It may be wise to adopt a sensible use of mouthwashPrefer alcohol-free formulations and ensure good daily oral hygiene (careful and regular brushing).