10/25/2017 / By Russel Davis
A recent report has revealed that toxic chemicals commonly found in cleaning products have detrimental effects on human health. The researchers have pointed out that exposure to toxic fumes from cleaning products — such as bleach, floor cleaners, fabric softeners, and detergents — may increase the risk of developing respiratory issues and adverse skin conditions.
The experts cited a study published last year, which demonstrated that the use of harmful chemical-based cleaning products may negatively affect the respiratory tract. The study, conducted by scientists at the University of Bergen in Norway, found that people who regularly use the products are 14 percent more likely to suffer lung function decline over the next two decades. According to experts, the most common cleaning products that trigger this condition include bleach and different variants of ammonia.
“Cleaning products can put people’s health at risk. So people should be aware of the risks and take steps to mitigate against them – if people have genuine concerns they should ensure that they discuss any symptoms and the possible link with their workplace with their doctor,” outside expert Professor Jørgen Vestbo told The Sun online.
The scientists have also stressed that the number of people suffering from eczema has more than doubled over the previous 30 years. According to experts, eczema has now become so common that one in three children are expected to experience at least one episode of the skin condition. The researchers have identified isothiazolinones, a class of chemicals found in polishes, fabric softeners and detergents, as the primary culprit in the rising eczema rates. (Related: Seven dangerous ingredients found in laundry detergents that could be harming you and the environment.)
“Sadly, familiarity breeds complacency, and many people routinely underestimate the risks associated with household cleaners. Many contain ingredients which are highly irritant to both the skin and respiratory system…If you read the small print on labels you will see that many supposedly skin-friendly non-bio products also carry warnings that they can cause skin irritations – which makes a mockery of their supposedly skin-friendly claims,” says report author Dr. Gill Jenkins.
An article posted on the Daily Mail website has compiled a list of alternative cleaning products that people can use to prevent the onset of adverse medical conditions. These products include:
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Tagged Under: ammonia, bleach, cleaning products, detergent, respiratory health, skin irritants, toxic chemicals