Can cleaning be compared to smoking?

A research report that received considerable attention and compared the health disadvantages of cleaning with those of smoking was published in 2018 in the scientific journal American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. The study is called “Cleaning at Home and at Work in Relation to Lung Function Decline and Airway Obstruction” and was conducted by Norwegian researchers at the University of Bergen.

 

 

The study examined the effects of regularly using cleaning chemicals on lung function in people who clean frequently, both professionally and at home. The researchers followed 6,000 people over a 20-year period and found that those who worked as professional cleaners or regularly used cleaning sprays had reduced lung function comparable to smoking up to 20 cigarettes a day. The researchers also noted that long-term exposure to cleaning chemicals can cause lasting lung damage and increase the risk of asthma.

 

For more information, you can read the study directly in American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine or through the University of Bergen, where the research was first presented.

 

The study “Cleaning at Home and at Work in Relation to Lung Function Decline and Airway Obstruction” identified several chemicals in cleaning products that negatively affect the lungs. The most common harmful chemicals include:

 

1. Perchloroethylene (Perc) - commonly used in stain removal; it can affect the nervous system and cause irritation of the airways.
2. Ammonia - highly irritating to the lungs and mucous membranes.
3. Chlorine-based cleaning products (such as bleach) - can cause respiratory problems.
4. Glycol ethers - used in some cleaning sprays and can cause respiratory irritation.

 

Exposure to these substances over time led to a noticeable reduction in lung capacity.

 

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Questions and answers

1. What effect does long-term use of cleaning sprays have on lung function?
Answer: The studies showed a gradual deterioration in lung capacity, particularly among women who regularly used spray products.

2. Which chemicals are linked to lung damage from cleaning?
Answer: Chemicals such as perchloroethylene, ammonia, and chlorine-based products have been shown to negatively affect the lungs.

3. Is there a difference in lung damage between professional cleaners and those who only clean at home?
Yes, professional cleaners showed a higher risk of impaired lung function compared with those who only clean at home.

4. What can you do to avoid being negatively affected by cleaning?
Answer: Use natural cleaning products as much as possible. Västerbottenssåpa is a good alternative.