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For most Americans, the daily commute is a familiar routine. But a recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology throws a wrench into that normalcy, raising concerns about a potential health hazard lurking within our cars. The culprit? Flame retardant chemicals, added to car interiors to meet safety standards, may be off-gassing and contaminating the air we breathe while driving, potentially putting us at risk for cancer and other health problems.
The study, led by researchers at Duke University, analyzed the cabin air of 101 vehicles ranging from model years 2015 to 2022. The findings were alarming:
Near ubiquity of flame retardants: A staggering 99% of the cars tested contained a flame retardant called tris(chloropropyl) phosphate (TCIPP). This chemical is particularly concerning as the National Toxicology Program is currently investigating its potential link to cancer.
Not an isolated case: The majority of the tested vehicles also harbored two other flame retardants, TCEP and TDCIPP, both classified as carcinogenic by some health agencies.
Beyond cancer: The researchers warn that these chemicals may also be associated with neurological issues, developmental problems, and disruption of the endocrine system.
“Considering the average American driver spends about an hour in their car each day, this is a significant public health issue,” said lead researcher Rebecca Hoehn, a toxicology scientist at Duke University. “It’s particularly concerning for people with longer commutes and children, who breathe in more air per pound of body weight than adults.”
The source of the problem: The study points to flame retardants added to seat foam and other car parts as the primary source of the contamination. These chemicals are used to meet flammability standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, the potential health risks they pose raise a critical question: are these safety measures coming at a cost to our health?
Heat as a contributing factor: The researchers also observed a link between temperature and flame retardant levels. Cars parked in hot weather or driven in warm climates showed higher concentrations of these chemicals in the cabin air, likely due to increased off-gassing from the materials.
What can be done?
While the study underscores the need for further investigation into the long-term health effects of exposure to these chemicals in car interiors, it also offers some practical steps drivers can take to minimize their risk:
Increase ventilation: Open windows whenever possible, especially during hot weather, to allow fresh air to circulate and dilute the concentration of contaminants.
Limit recirculated air: Avoid using the car’s air recirculation function, which can trap pollutants inside the vehicle.
Park in the shade: When possible, park your car in a garage or shaded area to minimize heat exposure and potential off-gassing.
Consider car interior materials: If you’re in the market for a new car, inquire about the flame retardants used in the interior materials.
Advocate for change: Consumers can voice their concerns to car manufacturers and policymakers, urging them to explore safer alternatives to these potentially harmful flame retardants.
The findings of this study add a new layer of complexity to car safety. While flame retardants play a role in preventing fires, their potential health risks cannot be ignored. Further research is crucial to determine the extent of the danger and identify safer alternatives. In the meantime, American drivers can take steps to minimize their exposure while we wait for a more definitive answer on the road to a cleaner car interiors.
