"New Car Smell" May Contain Cancer-Causing Chemicals

Volatile organic compounds in new car cabin may have some risk of cancer. Cancer risk with these compounds is low. But still, it is important to know the likely health hazards.

Highlights:

The cabin of a new car may contain potentially cancer-causing volatile organic compounds (VOC s) like acetaldehyde and formaldehyde and others
Even though exposure to VOCs has many associated health risks, cancer risk is very low
The manufacturers of the cars were made aware of this risk, and they have taken measures to reduce VOCs in the new car cabins

The new car smell is often associated with the feeling of driving a brand new car, but what many people may not know is that these chemicals are associated with significant health hazards.

A recent study, conducted jointly by the Beijing Institute of Technology and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, has found that the interior of a new car contains 20 different types of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

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‘While exposure to VOCs in a new car may pose health risks, the risk of cancer is generally low. Car manufacturers have taken steps to reduce the amount of VOCs released in new cars. The study highlights the importance of being aware of potential health risks associated with VOCs in new cars.’

These VOCs can potentially contain substances that may cause cancer. The study specifically identified high levels of formaldehyde (34.9%) and acetaldehyde (60.5%) inside a new car's cabin.

Volatile organic compounds are compounds that have a high vapor pressure and low water solubility, and they are found in various products such as paints, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum fuels, among others ().

These compounds are also released from new cars, and the levels of VOCs in a new car may be higher due to the materials and adhesives used to make the car, according to Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, a medical toxicologist and co-medical director of the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C.

VOC Level Detection in Cars

Researchers utilized sensors to measure the volatile organic compound (VOC) levels inside a brand-new car that was completely sealed for 12 days while parked outdoors. The tests were conducted at various levels of humidity and temperature.

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The study discovered that the amount of chemicals emitted within the car was strongly influenced by the temperature of the material surfaces rather than the commonly used air temperature. The researchers observed that higher temperatures were correlated with higher levels of chemicals in the vehicle.

The research also indicated that inhaling, ingesting, or absorbing certain chemicals through the skin could pose a high incremental lifetime risk of cancer for drivers. Dr. Jianyin Xiong, the lead author of the study and director of the Institute of Thermal Engineering at the Beijing Institute of Technology, reported these findings ().

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However, Dr. Johnson-Arbor noted that the risk of cancer from exposure to VOCs in a new car is low. The risk is generally higher for people who work in environments where they are exposed to VOCs for long periods of time. While the risk of cancer is low, it is important to note that in-car chemicals do pose a health hazard.

After the publication of the study, car manufacturers have taken measures to minimize the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in their new vehicles. For instance, Toyota has produced an eco-friendly polyurethane foam that is used in the seats of select models. Honda has also reduced VOC levels by utilizing water-based adhesives and paints in their cars.

Car Scent: A Potential Risk

In summary, the new car scent may contain VOCs that pose potential health risks. Nonetheless, the probability of developing cancer from exposure to VOCs in a new car is low, and automakers are taking action to diminish VOC emissions in their new vehicles. While it is crucial to acknowledge the possible health hazards, there is no need to become alarmed.

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References:

Characterization of VOC Emission from Materials in Vehicular Environment at Varied Temperatures: Correlation Development and Validation - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26452146/)
Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality - (https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality)

Source-Medindia