Common Antibacterial May Pose Allergy Risk

An antibacterial chemical found in numerous personal care products, triclosan is absorbed into the body through mucous membranes; thus, its presence in toothpastes, deodorants, and soaps is of particular concern.   Researchers involved in the Norwegian Environment and Childhood Asthma Study collected and measured 623 urine samples from children residing in Norway and the US.  Approximately 50% of the Norwegian children had detectable levels of triclosan, while 80% of American children had measurable levels.  Triclosan levels measured in urine were associated with elevated levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and rhinitis (blocked nose/hay fever) in 10 year-olds.  Observing that: “Triclosan concentrations were associated with allergic sensitization, … Current rhinitis was associated with the highest levels of triclosan,” the study authors conclude that: “These results are consistent with recent findings in other studies and provide additional evidence for an association between triclosan and allergy.”