Chemicals in Air Fresheners Reduces Lung Functions

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- New
research reveals a chemical compound found in many common deodorizing
products, like air fresheners and toilet bowl cleaners, has a
moderately harmful effect on a person's respiratory system.

Scientists
from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
found harmful reactions to the functions of the pulmonary system when
in proximity of the deodorizers. This is because these deodorants
contain a volatile organic compound (VOC) called 1,4 dichlorobenzene
(1,4 DCB), which is an irritant to the lungs.

"Even a small
reduction in lung functions indicates some harm to the lungs,"
according to the lead NIEHS investigator, Stephanie London, M.D. "The
best way to protect yourself, especially children who may have asthma
or other respiratory illnesses, is to reduce the use of products and
materials that contain these compounds."

The study was conducted
among 953 adults ranging in age between 20 and 59 years. Data included
both measures of VOCs in the blood and the pulmonary functions of
participants.

Researchers found modest reductions of the pulmonary functions with the increased concentrations of VOCs in their blood.

The
researchers took into account other possible exposures of 1,4 DCB such
as wood fires, presence of furred pets, tobacco smoke and occupation.
They also took into account whether the participants had asthma or
emphysema.

As a summary to the research, NIEHS Director David A. Schwartz, M.D., reports, "1,4 DCB may exacerbate respiratory diseases."

SOURCE: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2006;114:1210-1214

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