New Investigation: This Household Chemical “Causes More Cancer Than Any Other”

Everyday life is filled with hidden dangers, but one may be closer than you think. A chemical commonly found in household items has been identified as a top cancer risk, and the implications are startling.

Formaldehyde, a substance most people associate with science labs or mortuaries, is quietly making its way into homes, with devastating consequences for human health.

According to a report by ProPublica, formaldehyde has emerged as the chemical most strongly linked to cancer, surpassing others in its danger.

This conclusion is supported by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, which reviewed the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2022 Draft Formaldehyde Assessment.

The report unequivocally identifies formaldehyde as carcinogenic, linking it to nasopharyngeal cancers, sinonasal cancers, and myeloid leukemia.

The EPA’s initial estimates suggest that lifetime exposure to formaldehyde in the home could cause 255 cancer cases per million people.

However, ProPublica’s deeper analysis suggests these numbers might be vastly underestimated—by up to fourfold. This means the risk is not only higher but also potentially far more widespread than previously acknowledged.

A Silent Intruder in Your Home

While most recognize formaldehyde as a preservative used in scientific research or embalming, its presence extends far beyond these contexts. Formaldehyde can be found in:

Composite wood products like plywood and particleboard
Building materials and insulation
Household items, including glues, paints, lacquers, and fabric softeners
Clothing, such as permanent press fabrics
Cosmetics and medicines that use it as a preservative
Fertilizers and pesticides
Emissions from fuel-burning appliances, including gas stoves
Cigarette smoke

The widespread use of this chemical means it’s virtually impossible to avoid entirely, making the risks even more concerning.

The Overlooked Danger

Many people assume that government regulations adequately protect them from harmful chemicals.

However, formaldehyde’s pervasive presence challenges this notion. While recent legislation has placed some restrictions on its use, ProPublica highlights that chemical companies continue to spend millions to resist stricter regulations.

Profit-driven lobbying ensures that the status quo remains, leaving consumers vulnerable.

Adding to the concern, the EPA’s decision to exclude myeloid leukemia from its formal risk estimates—citing uncertainty—further obscures the true danger. This has drawn criticism from experts who believe the agency’s stance minimizes the potential risks.

Health Impacts Beyond Cancer

Formaldehyde’s health effects are not limited to its cancer-causing potential. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that even short-term exposure to low levels of the chemical can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.

Prolonged exposure or higher concentrations can cause coughing, choking, or even death due to throat swelling or lung damage.

Moreover, formaldehyde is recognized as a neurotoxin. The Cleveland Clinic notes that it can alter or inhibit the function of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, leading to conditions that range from mild impairment to severe, long-lasting damage. In extreme cases, neurotoxicity can result in death.

For those with asthma or allergies, formaldehyde can act as a potent trigger. It has also been linked to miscarriages and fertility problems, raising broader concerns about its impact on reproductive health.

Steps to Protect Yourself

In the absence of stronger regulatory protections, individuals must take proactive measures to reduce their exposure to formaldehyde. The American Lung Association (ALA) offers the following recommendations:

Choose low-formaldehyde products when building or renovating.
Ventilate indoor spaces well, especially after introducing new furniture or construction materials.
Air out new items, such as furniture or pressed wood products, before bringing them indoors.
Wash new clothing before wearing it, especially permanent press fabrics.
Avoid smoking or vaping, which release formaldehyde into the air.

For those concerned about their exposure, ProPublica has developed a tool that allows individuals to assess their personal risk based on location and environmental factors. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also help address any symptoms or concerns related to formaldehyde exposure.

A Call for Awareness and Action

Formaldehyde’s prevalence in everyday life and its profound health risks call for immediate attention.

While industry lobbying and regulatory challenges make systemic change difficult, individuals can still take meaningful steps to protect themselves and their families. Understanding where formaldehyde hides and how it affects the body is the first step toward minimizing its impact.

As more research emerges, one thing is clear: the risks posed by formaldehyde are far greater than many realize. By taking action now, we can reduce our exposure and demand stronger protections against this silent intruder.