Study reveals gas stove emissions are worse than secondhand smoke

A new study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology revealed that the amount of benzene (a cancer-causing chemical) released by gas stoves is worse than secondhand tobacco smoke.

Even though proper ventilation helps reduce pollutant concentrations, but exhaust fans are often ineffective at eliminating the chemicals.

For the study, researchers looked at benzene emissions from 87 houses. It was found that emissions from gas stoves are above what's considered safe by the World Health Organisation.

As per scientists, breathing excessive benzene can increase the risk of cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.

It should be noted that gas burners and ovens emit 10 to 50 times more benzene than electric stoves, whereas induction cooktops emit almost zero detectable benzene.

Previous studies have also suggested that roasting chapati directly on a gas flame may cause cancer.

Also watch: Cooking chapati directly on stove flame may cause cancer: study