Most people unknowingly breathe dangerous levels of formaldehyde, a toxic chemical found in furniture, cars and household items, that poses serious health risks.
Topher Sanders reports for ProPublica with additional reporting by Sharon Lerner and Al Shaw.
In short:
- Tests conducted in furniture stores, salons, homes and cars revealed formaldehyde levels exceeding the EPA’s safe thresholds, sometimes by over 10 times.
- Formaldehyde, released from items like gas stoves, adhesives and furniture, causes respiratory issues, asthma and cancer, particularly myeloid leukemia.
- Despite regulations, exposure remains high, disproportionately affecting lower-income populations who lack resources to minimize their risk.
Key quote:
“It is holding together our built environment and also chemically corroding us at the same time. It’s part of the fundamental paradox of the world that we’ve built, where this chemical is holding together our homes. We have built our society around it.”
— Nicholas Shapiro, researcher at UCLA
Why this matters:
Formaldehyde exposure is widespread and largely unavoidable due to its use in common products. Long-term exposure increases the risk of respiratory problems and cancer, making indoor air quality a significant public health concern. Reducing this risk requires stronger regulations and public awareness.
