Irritant effects of formaldehyde exposure in mobile homes.

Abstract

This paper reports the irritant effects associated with formaldehyde exposures in mobile homes. Week-long, integrated formaldehyde concentrations were measured using passive monitors in summer and winter while the mobile home residents continued their normal activities. Information on acute health problems, chronic respiratory/allergic illnesses, smoking behavior, demographic variables, and time spent at home was obtained on over 1000 individuals during the sampling period. Measured formaldehyde concentrations varied from under the limit of detection (0.01 ppm) to 0.46 ppm. Formaldehyde exposure was estimated for each individual by multiplying the concentration measured in his or her home by the time he or she spent at home. Irritant effects were found to be associated with formaldehyde exposure after controlling for age, sex, smoking status, and chronic illnesses using a logistic procedure. Some of the interaction terms found to be significant indicated that there were synergistic effects between formaldehyde exposure and chronic health problems.

Health risk assessment of exposure to formaldehyde in dental materials

“…The irritant action of formaldehyde on eyes, upper respiratory tract and skin is well documented [4,[14][15][16][17][18][19][20]. Our results indicate increased incidence, with a high significance, and relative risk of manifestation of subjective symptoms from the upper respiratory tract, respiratory system and the skin in the group of dental professionals.…”

“…The irritant action of formaldehyde on eyes (watery, itchy eyes), upper respiratory tract (itchy, runny, or stuffy nose, sinus fullness, dry or sore throat) and skin (irritation and dermatitis) is well documented [4,[14][15][16][17][18][19][20].…”

Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-94-0129-2397, Tri-County North School, Lewisburg, Ohio.

“…Using information from this study, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recommended that formaldehyde concentrations be kept below a "target level" of 0.05 ppm inside conventional homes. 26 In another study, the Dutch Health and Environment Inspectorates compiled measurements which had been made between 1978 and 1981 in homes and schools where there were complaints which may have been caused by formaldehyde. 27 Overall, complaints occurred in approximately 50% of the locations where the formaldehyde level was above 0.1 ppm.…”

Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-93-011-2309, Tri-County North School, Lewisburg, Ohio.

“…Using information from this study, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recommended that formaldehyde concentrations be kept below a "target level" of 0.05 ppm inside conventional homes. 39 In another study, the Dutch Health and Environment Inspectorates compiled measurements which had been made between 1978 and 1981 in homes and schools where there were complaints which may have been caused by formaldehyde. 40 Overall, complaints occurred in approximately 50% of the locations where the formaldehyde level was above 0.1 ppm.…”