A research report that has received a lot of attention and compares 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 investigated 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 used cleaning sprays regularly had a reduced lung function comparable to smoking up to 20 cigarettes per day. The researchers also noted that long-term exposure to cleaning chemicals can cause long-term damage to the lungs and increase the risk of asthma.
For more information, you can read the study directly in the 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" pointed to several chemicals in cleaning products that negatively affect the lungs. The most common harmful chemicals include:
- Perchloroethylene (Perc) - common in stain removers, can affect the nervous system and cause respiratory irritation.
- Ammonia - highly irritating to lungs and mucous membranes.
- Chlorine-based cleaning agents (such as bleach) - can cause respiratory problems.
- Glycol ether - 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 of lung capacity, especially in women who used spray products regularly.
2. Which chemicals are linked to lung damage from cleaning?
Answer: Chemicals such as perchloroethylene, ammonia, and chlorine-based agents 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 to those who only clean at home.
4. What can be done to avoid being negatively affected by cleaning?
Answer: Use natural cleaning agents to the greatest extent possible. Soap is a good alternative.