A chemical in many air fresheners may reduce lung function in people with lung disease.
A new study finds that a chemical compound in many air fresheners, toilet bowl cleaners, and mothballs may harm the lungs. Researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that exposure to a volatile organic compound (VOC) called 1,4 dichlorobenzene (1.4 DCB) may cause reductions in lung function.
VOCS are emitted as gases from thousands of products, including cigarettes, pesticides, paints and cleaning products. They are also released through automotive exhaust.
The researchers looked at the relationship between blood concentrations of 11 common VOCs and lung function measures in 953 adults. Of the VOCs analyzed, only the compound 1,4 DCB was associated with reduced lung function, and they saw this effect even after adjusting for smoking. The study found approximately a 4% decrease in lung function between the highest and lowest levels of exposure to 1,4 DCB.
The study did not test for long-term adverse effects, but they are possible. If you have a lung disorder, it is probably a good idea to read the labels on your air fresheners and cleaners, and discard them if you see this chemical among the ingredients. This study was reported in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives (Volume 114, page 1210).
