Where is formaldehyde found and how is it harmful to us?

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas commonly used in household products and industrial applications. It can be harmful to humans, especially with prolonged exposure.

🧪 Where Formaldehyde Is Found

Formaldehyde is found in many indoor environments, often released (off-gassed) from products such as:

1. Building Materials

   • Plywood, particleboard, fiberboard

   • Laminate flooring, pressed-wood furniture

   • Insulation materials (like urea-formaldehyde foam)

2. Household Products

   • Cleaning agents and disinfectants

   • Air fresheners

   • Cosmetics (like nail polish and hair products)

   • Glues and adhesives

3. Textiles & Clothing

   • Wrinkle-resistant fabrics

   • Curtains, carpets, and upholstered furniture

4. Cigarette Smoke

   • A major indoor source of formaldehyde

5. Combustion Sources

   • Gas stoves, fireplaces, and car exhaust

6. Medical and Industrial Use

   • Used in embalming fluids, laboratories, and as a preservative

☠️ How Formaldehyde Is Harmful to People

Short-Term Exposure (Acute)

• Irritation of eyes, nose, throat, and skin

• Coughing and wheezing

• Headaches or nausea

• Asthma attacks or worsening of respiratory issues

Long-Term Exposure (Chronic)

• Sensitization—people may develop a formaldehyde allergy over time

• Cancer risk: Classified as a human carcinogen by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer). Linked to nasal and throat cancers, and possibly leukemia with long-term exposure.

• Chronic respiratory problems—especially in children and elderly