Women exposed to a chemical found in some anti-bacterial soaps 'more likely to ...

Women exposed to a 'gender-bending' chemical found in some anti-bacterial soaps and toothpastes 'are more likely to break their bones' Triclosan is used in products such as toothpaste, mouthwash and cosmetics A study found women with higher levels in the urine had weaker bones Researchers said triclosan could be a risk for the bone disease osteoporosis

By Vanessa Chalmers Health Reporter For Mailonline

Published: 14:01 BST, 25 June 2019 | Updated: 14:01 BST, 25 June 2019

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Women exposed to a chemical found in some anti-bacterial soaps are more likely to break their bones, a study suggests.

The gender-bending chemical triclosan could be a risk factor for the bone disease osteoporosis, researchers said. 

Triclosan, used in some toothpastes, soaps, mouthwashes, and some cosmetics, has previously been linked to bowel cancer and antibiotic resistance.

It has already been banned in some products in the US, such as over-the-counter hand sanitisers. But no such ban exists in the UK. 

Women exposed to a chemical found in some anti-bacterial soaps are more likely to break their bones, a study of women in the US suggests

Women exposed to a chemical found in some anti-bacterial soaps are more likely to break their bones, a study of women in the US suggests 

Chinese scientists analysed data from 1,848 women in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Those with higher levels of triclosan in their urine were more likely to have bone issues, it was discovered. 

An author of the study, Yingjun Li, from Hangzhou Medical College School of Public Health in Hangzhou, China, 

She said: 'Laboratory studies have demonstrated that triclosan may have potential to adversely affect the bone mineral density in cell lines or in animals.

'However, little is known about the relationship between triclosan and human bone health.

WHAT IS TRICLOSAN? 

Triclosan, a chemical added to personal-care products to prevent bacterial contamination, has been linked to reduced heart health and an underactive thyroid.

It is added to antibacterial soaps, body washes, toothpastes and cosmetics, as well as some clothing, furniture and toys.

Triclosan also stops infections responding to antibiotics, which may contribute towards the

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