Research has revealed that standing near a gas stove in the kitchen is just as dangerous as passive smoking. The study analyzed the risks of gas stove combustion and identified dangerous levels for health.
The research was recently published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology and identified how benzene undergoes an increase in the combustion process. In summary, benzene comes out of the flames produced in the gas stove and circulates through the domestic environment, where it can remain for a long time.
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To carry out the gas measurement, the researchers visited more than 80 North American homes and followed the emissions in different rooms of the house. Thus, it was proven that the use of a gas stove emitted detectable data of benzene in the kitchen and even in other places, such as the bedroom. The numbers were always above what is considered acceptable for the standard of health.
The harm caused by this contact with the stove and the chemical is being compared to the act of being close to a smoker, when we passively inhale harmful cigarette smoke. Only one stove burner at 175°C emitted values higher than second-hand tobacco smoke levels.
The data found that both indoor gas stoves and secondhand smoke can bring people into contact with harmful chemicals such as benzene.
"Short-term exposure to benzene suppresses the production of blood cells, and chronic exposure to benzene increases the risk of leukemias and lymphomas."
In the case of the stove, the concern is about the increase of gases in internal environments and for a long period. Likewise, people should also avoid contact with smoke from cigarettes in closed places, due to the numerous chemical substances that are mixed in the composition of the cigarette.
According to the publication Gas and Propane Combustion from Stoves Emits Benzene and Increases Indoor Air Pollution (The combustion of gas and propane from stoves emits benzene and increases indoor air pollution)
The study points out that contact with the stove will not necessarily produce health problems, but issues a warning about the high levels of gases that people live with in their own homes, in a very common environment, such as kitchen.
But, how to avoid the health risks of the gas stove? Two simple tips are: avoid being close to the gas stove, if not necessary, and leave the windows open, keeping the environment well ventilated.
The researchers' orientation was that the best solution is to use electric or induction stoves.
