Gas stoves pose greater health risk than cigarette smoke
We are well aware of the detrimental effects of both active and passive smoking. However, it appears that there are other everyday items that may be even more harmful, among which is the gas stove. Professor Rob Jackson from Stanford University decided to remove the gas stove from his home due to its harmful nature.
Under Professor Jackson's leadership, the research team discovered that gas stoves emit significant amounts of benzene. The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, suggests that gas stoves can pose a greater health risk than cigarette smoke.
Individuals exposed to prolonged benzene exposure may have an increased risk of developing leukaemia and other blood cancers. Although benzene is a component of cigarette smoke, its concentration in the air from gas stoves can be higher than that typically found in passive smoking.
Professor Jackson responds to his own research findings
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 - explained Professor Jackson in a press interview, justifying his decision to remove the gas stove.
This decision stemmed from pollution measurement tests conducted in his home.
Benzene is produced during combustion, implying that the threat extends beyond smokers or people near fires to include those breathing polluted urban air. Studies conducted in 87 homes in California and Colorado revealed that in approximately 30% of cases, the use of gas stoves resulted in higher benzene concentrations than those inhaled by passive smokers.
The gas stove can be a hazard
Data published in June 2023 indicates that the benzene issue is not confined to the kitchen; the gas disperses throughout the house, even reaching the bedrooms. Without adequate ventilation, benzene concentrations can remain high even after the stove has been turned off.
Jackson's research indicates that the age or condition of the appliance does not significantly impact benzene emissions. The crucial factor is proper ventilation, yet not all extractor hoods with filters are sufficiently effective. Some devices, rather than expelling the gas, merely cause it to recirculate.
The findings from Professor Jackson's team could support those advocating for the removal of gas installations in buildings, particularly as electric induction hobs do not emit benzene. Previous studies suggest that the use of gas stoves may contribute to 13% of asthma cases in children in the USA.
On the other hand, one must consider the costs associated with running, purchasing, and replacing gas stoves with induction hobs, along with the potential risks of depending on a single energy source. An electrical system failure means an inability to cook, which is not a problem with a gas stove.
