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Back to October 2011 Motorsports News Archive
| 19-10-2011 at 08:00: The Hidden Toxic Dangers Of Automobiles | |
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Although some of these items may come with the car at the time of purchase, other toxic substances are contained in accessories like children’s car seats and air fresheners, so knowing what to look for when purchase extras can mean saving yourself from future health problems. One of the primary substances that can increase your chances of illness is Benzene, found in your car’s dashboard, air fresheners and seat covering. If you’ve noticed the smell of burning plastic on hot days and you tend to drive with the air-conditioner on for long periods of time, you could risk exposure to this toxic substance.
Healthy Benzene levels are reported as being 50mg’s per square foot, but a car with the windows rolled up can reach levels of 400mg’s to 600mg’s per square foot, and the higher the temperature goes, the greater the chance is that you are inhaling more and more of it. It’s recommended that you roll your window down as soon as you get in your car to give your vehicle a chance to air out. Asbestos, one of the primary causes of mesothelioma, is another hidden danger to look out for, especially if you do a lot of home maintenance on your car. While the use of asbestos is slowly decreasing, the older your car is, the greater the possibility is that it contains this cancer causing substance.
Hood liners, brake pads, and brake shoes can all release asbestos fibers during car maintenance causing irritation to the lining of the lungs. Although the symptoms of Mesothelioma may not appear for ten to 15 years, having your car inspected for asbestos content can reduce your risk of long-term exposure. If you’re a big fan of the new car smell, you need to know that the odor comes from the chemicals bromine and chlorine, which are used on the arm rests, shift knobs and seats. Too much exposure to bromine and chlorine can cause problems with your thyroid and eventually lead to ovary or prostate cancer.
Parents, who are thinking about purchasing car seats for their children should be aware that bromine is used as a flame retardant in some models. Over exposure to bromine can cause a decrease in iodine levels, memory impairment and learning disabilities. If you think your car may contain some of these harmful contaminants, check with your manufacturer for their building specifications.
Written by Brian Turner |
When we think about the toxins contained in automobiles, most people think about tailpipe exhaust, and while it is true that carbon monoxide has been proven to cause respiratory damage, there are other hidden dangers that can go unnoticed. Seemingly innocent items can contain harmful, even cancer causing materials that will, over time, compromise your health.
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