Indoor residential chemical emissions as risk factors for respiratory and allergic effects in children: A Review

Date Published
08/2007
Publication Type
Journal Article
Author
DOI
10.1111/j.1600-0668.2007.00478.x
LBL Report Number
LBNL-61280
Abstract

Most research into effects of residential exposures on respiratory health has focused on allergens, moisture/mold, endotoxin, or combustion products. A growing body of research from outside the US; however, has associated chemical emissions from common indoor materials with risk of asthma, allergies, and pulmonary infections. This review summarizes 21 studies in the epidemiologic literature on associations between indoor residential chemical emissions, or emission-related materials or activities, and respiratory health or allergy in infants or children. Associations, some strong, were reported between many risk factors and respiratory or allergic effects. Risk factors identified most frequently included formaldehyde or particleboard, phthalates or plastic materials, and recent painting. Findings for other risk factors, such as aromatic and aliphatic chemical compounds, were limited but suggestive. Elevated risks were also reported for renovation and cleaning activities, new furniture, and carpets or textile wallpaper. Reviewed studies were entirely observational, limited in size, and variable in quality, and specific risk factors identified may only be indicators for correlated, truly causal exposures. Nevertheless, overall evidence suggests a new class of residential risk factors for adverse respiratory effects, ubiquitous in modern residences, and distinct from those currently recognized. It is important to confirm and quantify any risks, to motivate and guide necessary preventive actions.

Notes

Journal article taken from Proceedings of Healthy Buildings 2006 Conference in Lisbon, Portugal in 2006. (LBNL-59781)

Journal
Indoor Air
Volume
17
Year of Publication
2007
Issue
4
Number
4
Pagination
18
Keywords
Organizations
Research Areas
Download citation