Research Summary: Health risk assessment of indoor formaldehyde exposure
This study examines how formaldehyde, a chemical in indoor air, impacts health in homes across China, with key takeaways for U.S. homeowners. Formaldehyde comes from building materials like plywood, particleboard, and furniture, especially in newly renovated spaces. Across 11 Chinese cities in different climate zones, formaldehyde levels in homes ranged from 0.008 to 0.109 mg/m³, depending on material grade (ENF, E0, or E1, with E1 emitting the most). Levels were higher in summer, in bedrooms (about 1.7 times more than living rooms), and in colder, heated regions, where they could be over twice as high. Infants face a risk 2.8 times higher than adults due to their smaller size and developing bodies. Long-term exposure to high-emission materials (E1) could raise the risk of cancers like leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer (cancer in the upper throat behind the nose) to 3.0–8.6 in 10,000, above safe limits. Switching to low-emission materials (ENF) could cut this risk by 62–78%. Since Americans spend about 90% of their lives indoors, choosing safer materials and improving ventilation can make a big difference. You can read the article here.
Key Takeaways for U.S. Readers:
Health Risks: Formaldehyde can cause headaches, dizziness, or cancers like leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer, with kids at higher risk.
Where It’s Worst: New homes, bedrooms, and heated spaces may have higher levels.
Material Impact: Cheaper, high-emission materials (like E1) increase risks, while low-emission ones (ENF) help.
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