Have you just bought a brand new car that still smells like it left the factory? Pay attention to the way you ride! An American study published in Environment International underlines the risk of inhalation of toxic products in the passenger compartment of new cars on long journeys.
The risk ? This is to increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. As the materials are new, they still release part of the chemical treatment, containing volatile molecules potentially dangerous for human health. This is the case with benzene which is used to make rubber. The latter is also singled out for his damage to the reproductive system. And formaldehyde found in floor mats.
Confined environment? Air out!
Most of the time, being exposed to these products is frankly not pleasant. This can cause vomiting or skin manifestations. But beyond a 20-minute journey, because of the “confined” side of the vehicle, the products are more concentrated and therefore more likely to expose them to risks.
The solution ? Avoid these products being found in too large quantities in the air of the car, and therefore: drive the windows open! By the time these “new” smells disappear.
Source : Inhalation of two Prop 65-listed chemicals within vehicles may be associated with increased cancer risk, Environment International, January 2021.
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