Formaldehyde Exposure Increases by 17% the Risk of Memory, Thinking Woes
By Linda Searing
A number of health risks are already linked to formaldehyde exposure and, now, researchers say cognitive impairment can be added to the list. A study reported in Neurology determined that people who come in contact with the gas — which is found in building materials, preservatives, and other applications — have a 17% greater chance of developing memory and thinking problems later, including logic, word recall, and attention. Among the trial's 75,000-plus participants, the highest risk (21%) was documented in people who had occupational exposure to formaldehyde for 22 years or longer. While the gas is not used as much as in the past, researchers noted that many people remain vulnerable. The most at-risk populations include healthcare workers, medical technicians, and employees of laboratories and funeral homes; but carpenters, cleaners, and textile workers are among the other laborers with the potential for exposure.
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