Household sprays cause increase in asthma

Wellness

oi-Priya Devi

By Priya Devi

Tuesday, June 8, 2010, 17:42

A leading health expert Jan Paul Zock, from Centre of Research in Environmental Epidemiology in Barcelona said, the use of household cleaning sprays could spread to a rise in cases of asthma.

Chemicals like chlorine,bleach, disinfectants and other cleaning agents can increase asthma and worsen the existing symptoms. He particularly warned that the professional cleaners and health workers who use products in hospitals are particularly vulnerable.

Zock said that through experiments and studies higher rates of asthma had found among caretakers, cleaners, housekeepers and nurses .The expert said, people inhaling bleach, ammonia, decalcifiers, acids, solvents and stain removers more than a week are linked to a 20 per cent rise in asthma or wheezing. Frequent usage of these cleaning agents will be at more risk than those who use them for longer durations. The strength of a product, in addition to room ventilation, also affect the risk.

The expert said that further studies should be done on people's exposure at home, which can be difficult to track. He said many people at home could be at risk. Thus he quotes saying,

"The number of people at risk is very large, We need to consider the ubiquitous use of cleaning products at home."

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.