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Study: Antimicrobial soaps have direct link to chloroform, cancer

Infection Control Monitor, April 15, 2005

Excessive use of antimicrobial soaps as a hospital disinfectant may be exposing workers to high quantities of chloroform, according to a recent Virginia Tech study.

Researchers learned that when the chemical triclosan, which is present in many antimicrobial soaps, reacts with chlorine in tap water, it produces cholorform.

The Environmental Protection Agency identifies chloroform as a probable human carcinogen.

The American Medical Association is urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate the use of antimicrobials, such as triclosan.

The FDA identifies Triclosan as a Class III drug. It is found in many personal care products, such as cosmetics, creams, acne treatments, lotions, and hand and dish soaps.

Researchers say people can be exposed through inhalation and skin contact.

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