Gas Stove Pollution Linked to 50,000 US Childhood Asthma Cases

A recent study published in Science Advances has found that nitrogen dioxide exposure from gas and propane stoves in US homes is linked to an estimated 50,000 current cases of pediatric asthma. The study, led by researchers at Stanford University, reveals that the mix of pollutants emitted by these stoves may be responsible for up to 200,000 childhood asthma cases nationwide.

Why this matters: This study highlights the significant impact of indoor air pollution on public health, particularly in disadvantaged communities, and underscores the need for policymakers and individuals to consider the health implications of household appliances. By addressing this issue, we can reduce the burden of asthma and other respiratory diseases, and create healthier living environments for millions of people.

The researchers measured air pollution in over 100 homes across the country before, during, and after stove use. They found that typical use of a gas or propane stove increases exposure to nitrogen dioxide by an estimated 4 parts per billion averaged over a year, which is three-quarters of the way to the nitrogen dioxide exposure level that the World Health Organization recognizes as unsafe in outdoor air. "I didn't expect to see pollutant concentrations breach health benchmarks in bedrooms within an hour of gas stove use and stay there for hours after the stove is turned off," said Professor Rob Jackson, senior author of the study.

The study also highlights significant disparities in exposure levels across different demographics. People living in homes smaller than 800 square feet were exposed to twice as much nitrogen dioxide compared to the national average. Long-term exposure was 60% higher among American Indian and Alaska Native households and 20% higher among Black and Hispanic or Latino households.

"We found that just how much gas you burn in your stove is by far the biggest factor affecting how much you're exposed. And then, after that, do you have an effective range hood—and do you use it?"saidlead study authorYannai Kashtan, a Ph.D. student at Stanford. The researchers emphasize that electric stoves emit no nitrogen dioxide or benzene, and recommend reducing pollutant exposures by using ventilation when cooking with gas or propane stoves.

Thefindingshave significant implications for public health, as nitrogen dioxide exposure can trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions. Long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide from gas stoves may also be causing thousands of deaths each year, possibly as many as 19,000, which is equivalent to 40% of the annual fatalities linked to secondhand smoke. The study underscores the importance of considering the impact of household appliances on indoor air quality and health, particularly in disadvantaged communities that are already disproportionately affected by outdoor air pollution.

Key Takeaways

• Gas/propane stoves in US homes linked to 50,000 pediatric asthma cases.
• Typical stove use increases nitrogen dioxide exposure by 4 parts per billion.
• Disadvantaged communities face higher exposure levels, including American Indian, Alaska Native, Black, and Hispanic/Latino households.
• Electric stoves emit no nitrogen dioxide or benzene, and ventilation can reduce pollutant exposures.
• Long-term exposure may cause thousands of deaths each year, equivalent to 40% of secondhand smoke fatalities.