Research Reveals Alarming Link Between Hand Sanitisers And Brain Health

With the onset of COVID-19 in the world in late 2019, the use of hand sanitisers, wipes and soaps went skyrocketing. Recently, research has revealed the deadly effects of using too much use of sanitisers on brain health.

During the period of lockdowns in multiple phases, people adopted the habit of sanitising their hands multiple times throughout the day to be on the safer side. The sale of hand sanitisers went skyrocketing. The habit of using sanitisers continues as there are multiple new brands selling hand sanitisers and marketing them. However, the adverse effects of using too much sanitiser have remained in the dark.

A recent study on brain cells has proven that chemicals present in disinfectants, lingering on furniture and clothes, damage the supporting cells in the brain. The damage is seen more in the critical stages of organ development.

The research was done at the Case Western Reserve University, Ohio. Molecular Biologist Erin Cohn and her team of researchers closely studied samples and found 1823 substances of unknown toxicity. They have found two types of harmful chemicals, that stop the mutation of oligodendrocyte cells. In worst cases, these chemicals are seen to kill the cells as well. The study was done in laboratory conditions. These cells are responsible for supporting the nerves in the body. They wrap around the nerves to form the insulating sheath called myelin sheath. Their job is to transmit the brain signals to different organs and limbs of the body. Meaning, too much exposure to these chemicals can affect our nervous system and hinder the brain and organ functions.

According to the research, the first chemical compound is used in wipes, hand sanitisers, disinfectant sprays, toothpaste, and mouthwash to kill bacteria and viruses in measured amounts. These chemicals going into the digestive system do not harm the body severely.

However, the other harmful chemical is from the organophosphate class. These chemicals are used as flame retardants. These chemicals are generally found in furniture, electronic items, clothing and glue. The fat-soluble organophosphate is absorbed in the human body through the skin and reaches the brain. The oligodendrocytes present in the body are highly vulnerable to flame retardants.