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A basic understanding of indoor air quality

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)? Multiple Chemical Sensitivities )MCS)? Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)? Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDP's)? Radon? These are terms found only in obscure college chemistry texts, right? Well, not any more!

Recent studies (both governmental and independent) show a dramatic increase of harmful airborne pollutants in our homes. Consequently, a number of medical conditions (including cancer) can easily be attributed to this gradual deterioration of our Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

Some questions to ponder:

' What do we (and the ones we love) breathe at home, in other words, how well do we know the air we breathe?
' What can we do to improve our indoor air quality?

Here is list of how far down the 'rabbit hole' poor indoor air quality can take you and your family:

1. Dryness and irritation of eyes, nose and skin
2. Headaches
3. Fatigue
4. Shortness of Breath
5. Sinus congestion
6. Coughing and sneezing
7. Dizziness
8. Nausea
9. Asthma
10. Allergic reactions
11. Toxic shock
12. Lung disease
13. Cancer

According to the National Lung Association (NLA), lung disease claims close to 335,000 lives every year in America, making it the third leading cause of death in the U.S. So, what is causing this disease?

a) Carbon Oxides(CO,CO2)-Nitrogen Oxide (NOx)- Tobacco Smoke, Perfumes and Body Odors:
Heating systems and other appliances (stoves, furnaces, heaters, water heaters, dryers etc.) that use fossil fuel (gas, fuel or wood) can produce several combustion products. Carbon oxides interfere with the oxygen in our body. At low levels they can produce fatigue, confusion, nausea and dizziness. Prolonged exposure to Nitrogen Oxides can lead to chronic bronchitis.

b) Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can permeate into our homes through cracks in the foundation, floor, walls and drains. The National Research Council reports that it is the second leading cause of lung cancer (15,000 to 20,000 deaths per year).

c) Dust
Researchers found that flame retardants (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) in the dust in American homes are 10 times higher than anywhere in Europe. The Deca Brominated Diphenyl Ether form is especially toxic as it accumulates in the body. For that reason, it is a potent carcinogen. PBDEs are also found in carpets, drapers, auto interiors, hair dryers, computers and television sets.

d) Chloroform
Chlorinated hot water in the kitchen sink, washing machine, dish water and shower can release chloroform, a known carcinogen

e) VOC's
Studies have repeatedly shown that computers release up to 47 chemicals in the form of gases, including toxic hydrocarbons from adhesives. In addition, engineered woods such as plywood, fiberboard and strand board contain adhesives that emit hydrocarbons.

f) Carcinogens
Environment Science and Technology recently published a study that shows that the average American house contains 20 banned substances like PCB and DDT. PolyCarbonatedByphenols (PCBs) are ingredients in disinfectants, detergents and adhesives.

g) Organic Matter
Indoor air in also laden with fungi, molds, bacteria and other microbial contaminants from damp areas, stagnant waters, carpets and other fabric. Allergens from pet hair and pollen are present as well.

The list can be really long' Over the past 10 years poor indoor air quality has become one of the leading causes of disease in the United States. Since we spend 90% of our time indoors (according to the U.S. census) it is very important to understand that taking measures to reduce or eliminate indoor air pollution can dramatically increase quality of life. Here is a quick list of action steps:

' Eliminate or reduce chemical usage in your homes.
' Used ionized water and decloronation caps in your showers
' Use organic/ natural cleaners whenever possible
' When possible use natural wood
' Eliminate smoking
' Ensure adequate house ventilation
' Get an air purifier

Remember the solution to each problem starts with acknowledgment and the first small step.