Antwerp, Belgium – A recent study conducted by scientists at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with the daily use of a popular mouthwash brand. The study suggests that using Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash on a daily basis could potentially increase the risk of developing esophageal and colorectal cancers.
Researchers found that after three months of daily mouthwash use, two species of bacteria commonly linked to cancer – Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus – were more prevalent in the mouths of participants. It is speculated that the alcohol content in the mouthwash could be contributing to the increase in harmful bacteria.
Professor Chris Kenyon, who led the study, cautioned against the widespread use of alcohol-based mouthwashes like Listerine. He emphasized that most people should not be using it and if they do, they should opt for alcohol-free preparations and limit usage to a couple of days.
The study initially aimed to investigate the impact of daily mouthwash use on STI risk among gay men but ended up making alarming discoveries about the potential health risks associated with the popular mouthwash. Participants in the study were instructed to use Listerine daily for three months, followed by three months of using a placebo mouthwash.
While the study focused on Listerine specifically, Professor Kenyon believes that similar levels of harmful bacteria could be found in other alcohol-based mouthwashes as well. The research has prompted discussions about the safety and efficacy of widely used oral hygiene products and their potential impact on overall health.
Representatives from Kenvue, the company that owns the Listerine brand, responded to the study by expressing skepticism about its findings. They highlighted the need for further research and scrutiny to draw definitive conclusions about the impact of mouthwash on human health. The study’s limitations and design controls were also questioned by the company as they seek to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers.