Conducted by the University of Bergen and published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the 20-year research followed over 6,000 people and found women who clean—whether at home or professionally—experience a lung function decline similar to smoking nearly 20 pack-years (a pack a day for 20 years).
Chemicals in cleaning sprays cause chronic airway irritation, leading to lasting respiratory harm.
Key lung health metrics, like forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC), dropped faster in cleaners than non-cleaners, with higher asthma rates among women—though men showed no similar effect.
Researchers suggest skipping harsh chemicals for safer options like microfiber cloths and water, urging tighter regulations on cleaning products to curb inhalation risk safeguard lung health long term.
Source: Mechanical Engineering World
