September 8th, 2024

Study links gas stoves in American homes to health risks

Recent findings reveal significant health risks associated with NO2 emissions from gas and propane stoves, particularly affecting smaller homes and minority communities in the U.S., highlighting an urgent need for regulatory action.

Gas and propane stoves are identified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants like NO2. (Photo: Annushka Ahuja via Pexels)
Gas and propane stoves are identified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants like NO2. (Photo: Annushka Ahuja via Pexels)

A recent study conducted by researchers from Stanford University and other institutions reveals that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions from gas and propane stoves in the U.S. are likely causing significant health issues, including about 50,000 current cases of pediatric asthma and possibly contributing to up to 19,000 adult deaths annually. The research, published in the journal Science Advances, highlights the need for better indoor air quality controls and has sparked discussion about potential regulatory measures.

The big picture: Greater risk in smaller spaces and disadvantaged communities

  • The research found significant disparities in exposure levels based on home size and income. Residents in smaller homes, under 800 square feet, experience four times the NO2 exposure compared to those in homes larger than 3000 square feet.

  • Disparities extend across socioeconomic lines, with lower-income and minority households facing significantly higher exposure. Specifically, American Indian/Alaska Native and Black and Hispanic/Latino households experience 60% and 20% more NO2 exposure, respectively, than the national average.

Details: The hidden dangers of cooking at home

  • Gas and propane stoves are identified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants like NO2, which can elevate indoor air concentrations above health safety benchmarks set by organisations such as the WHO and U.S. EPA.

What's happening: Regulatory implications

  • The findings highlight a critical gap in regulations concerning indoor air quality, with indoor air pollution remaining largely unregulated in the U.S., despite its significant health implications. This gap points to the urgent need for policies that address indoor air quality to safeguard public health.

The bottom line: An urgent call for action

  • The study underscores the need for immediate policy interventions to mitigate the health risks associated with NO2 exposure from gas and propane stoves, particularly to protect vulnerable populations in densely populated and lower-income areas.