You may have heard the news about gas stoves. Recent studies are showing that the risk from these appliances are both real and significant.
People with gas stoves in their homes are 40% more likely to have asthma and respiratory illnesses. Findings show that gas stoves produce many harmful chemicals --even when they are turned off.
A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Technology showed 12 harmful chemicals in homes with gas stoves—include carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide (causes lung damage producing both asthma and COPD), methane (can cause rapid heart rate and trouble breathing), benzene (a cancer causing substance), and more.
The California study sampled 159 homes with gas stoves, and benzene was found in 99% of these samples. The problem is that there is no safe level of benzene--a substance directly linked with blood cancers like leukemia, multiple myeloma and non-hodgkin lymphoma. There are also linkages of gas stove use with behavioral disorders and nervous system issues.
Another study in Boston conducted by lead investigator Drew Michanowicz found 21 harmful chemicals in homes using gas stoves. Some of these chemicals were linked to cognitive impairment, birth defects and more cancers.
This is no joke.
And, federal authorities agree. A federal ban is likely in the United States and across the EU —in effect preventing installation of gas stoves.
So, if you have a gas stove-- what can you do?
1. Turn on fan hood (assuming it vents to the outside—not all do) every time you cook
2. Open windows and doors during cooking time
3. Keep pets and children away from kitchen area when cooking
4. Purchase and use a high-quality air filter in your kitchen area
These tips will reduce your exposure —but will not eliminate it.
If you have a high-risk household member, small children, or just really care about not raising your cancer risk—it’s time to switch to an electric stovetop.
This not only protects you; it protects your environment. Many of the chemicals emitted from gas stoves contribute to global warming.
Prior to 2022, it was recommended to consider switching to electric stovetops—but now almost all major authorities are recommending removing gas stoves from your home. This took a turn recently when even more evidence surfaced establishing significant risks to human and pet health.
If you do want to switch over to electric— consumer reports says the most highly rated electric stovetops are LG, GE, KitchenAid and Samsung.
Comments