Self-reported neurological symptoms in relation to CO emissions due to problem gas appliance installations in London: a cross-sectional survey

2008

Link Between Gas Appliances and Neurological Symptoms

Sample size: 597 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): B. Croxford, G. S. Leonardi, I. Kreis

Primary Institution: Bartlett School of Graduate Studies, University College London

Hypothesis

Certain self-reported neurological symptoms experienced by a householder are linked to an estimate of their CO exposure.

Conclusion

This study found an association between risk of CO exposure at low concentration and prevalence of self-reported neurological symptoms in the community for those households not in receipt of benefit.

Supporting Evidence

6% of households were assessed as having a 'high or very high' risk of CO exposure.
9% of individuals reported at least one neurological symptom.
There was a statistically significant association between 'high or very high' exposure risk to CO and self-reported symptoms.
Households in receipt of benefit showed no dose-response pattern.

Takeaway

If your gas appliances are not working properly, they might be making you feel sick or confused. This study looked at how that might happen.

Methodology

A cross-sectional survey of 597 homes with gas appliances was conducted, where qualified engineers assessed the appliances and collected health symptom data from householders.