When searching ToxNet for urea formaldehyde, I came across a
lot of information. Health effects from exposure
to formaldehyde are wide ranging, and can be extremely serious even leading to
death. An article on ToxNet points to
things as subtle as skin and eye irritation to nausea and headache. Prolonged or more extensive exposure could
lead to reproductive issues, cancers and death.
Bleach is used in many products we come into contact daily including
paper, detergents,
antifreeze, antiknock compounds, plastics, synthetic rubbers, adhesives,
pharmaceuticals, water purification, sanitation of industrial and sewage wastes
and in the degassing of aluminum metal. It causes eye, throat and skin
irritation and burning most commonly as it has a very strong odor even when not
in contact with us physically. Beyond
that, bleach causes coughing, chest pain, burns and other more short term
issues. Long term exposure can lead to
more significant respiratory issues.
Hey Doug,
ReplyDeleteFormaldehyde is a very scary chemical! It is interesting how it can be found in so many products and yet there are no regulations on it knowing how it can make an impact our health in a negative way. Like I said on Malena's post, I smelled formaldehyde in respect to it preserving human specimens such as brains, lungs and kidneys when my co-workers and I got to visit the morgue to fix something and the technician showed us the specimens and told us all specimens are floating in 10% formaldehyde. The smell was quite potent! As for bleach, it is found in household products and cosmetics. In regards to cosmetics I think it should be banned. I understand some people feel the need to bleach their skin but from a public health prospective I do not think it is safe; bodies absorb it and it can cause more harm than good.