New Study Finds That Gas Stove Tops Are Linked To Asthma In Children and Could Cause Cancer in Adults

New findings have shown that gas stoves — even when turned off — may cause asthma in children and put adults at risk of cancer.

Dr. Jonathan Levy, an environmental health professor at Boston University, claimed the stoves may pollute the air with nitrogen dioxide, which can cause lung damage.

The pollutant, a “byproduct of fuel combustion,” is also the same that is produced on major highways, but since the kitchen is an enclosed space, it puts inhabitants at more risk. The size of the home and the quality of ventilation also play a part, says the scientist.

Even when switched off, the stoves can emit chemicals like methane, which can cause rapid heartbeat and trouble breathing, and benzene, a chemical linked to different cancers.

Nitrogen dioxide exposures in homes have been associated with more severe asthma and increased use of rescue inhalers in children.

A 2013 study revealed that people with gas stoves were 42% more likely to develop asthma.

There are other ways that gas stoves may harm health, according to scientists who have also warned that they could contribute to global warming, due to the methane they produce.