Your car is exposing you to cancer-causing chemicals, revealed a recent study. Car interiors in the United States often use flame retardants to meet safety standards. However, recent findings shed light on potential health concerns related to these chemicals.
Previous studies have associated certain flame retardants with health issues such as neurological problems, hormone disruption, and cancer-related risks. The study, conducted by researchers from Duke University and the Green Science Policy Institute, revealed concerning levels of flame retardants in the air inside cars.
Study Findings
The study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology enlisted 101 car owners with vehicles from model year 2015 or newer to participate in the study. They used silicone passive samplers to measure different types of pollutants in the air, including brominated and organophosphate flame retardants.
The study also noted that flame retardant concentrations were higher in summer compared to winter inside car cabins. This is likely due to increased emissions from plastics at higher temperatures.
Here are the key findings of the study:
Organophosphate esters (OPEs)
OPEs were the most frequently detected flame retardants in the air inside car cabins. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Management, these are the side effects of OPEs:
- Neurological Effects: Exposure to OPEs has been linked to neurological issues, including cognitive impairments, memory problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Hormone Disruption: OPEs can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential reproductive health issues.
- Respiratory Problems: Some OPEs may irritate the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
- Skin Irritation: Direct contact with OPEs may result in skin irritation, redness, itching, and dermatitis.
Tris(1-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP)
TCIPP was the dominant flame retardant found in car seat foam. A chlorinated organophosphate flame retardant, TCIPP is being used more following the phase-out of its close relative, TDCIPP, which is considered a potential carcinogen.
Here are the health effects associated with TCIPP chemicals as per a study published in MDPI’s journal ‘Toxics’:
- Carcinogenic Potential: TCIPP is classified as a probable human carcinogen, meaning it has the potential to cause cancer in humans. Prolonged exposure to TCIPP, especially through inhalation or skin contact, may increase the risk of cancer development.
- Neurotoxicity: High exposures to TCIPP have been associated with neurotoxic effects, affecting nerve function and potentially leading to neurological disorders.
- Thyroid Hormone Disruption: TCIPP may interfere with thyroid hormone regulation, impacting metabolism, growth, and energy levels.
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How To Protect Yourself From Flam Retardants In Car?
It's important to note that the health effects of these flame retardants can vary depending on factors such as the level and duration of exposure, individual sensitivity, and specific chemical properties. Minimising exposure to these chemicals, especially in enclosed spaces like car cabins, is advisable to reduce potential health risks.
To reduce potential exposure to flame retardants in car interiors, experts recommend:
- Ventilating your car, especially during hot weather.
- Parking in the shade or using sun visors to minimise interior temperature.
- Opening windows and ventilating the air before entering the car.
- Avoiding the recirculating air feature if possible.
The study underscored the need for further research into safer materials and regulations for car interiors. Moving forward, addressing fire safety with alternative technologies and materials may help mitigate risks associated with flame retardants in car cabins. While flame retardants serve a safety purpose, their potential health risks highlight the importance of understanding and minimising exposure. By taking simple precautions and supporting ongoing research, we can work towards safer and healthier environments inside our vehicles.