Volatile Organic Compounds and Lung Health
Author Information
Author(s): Elliott Leslie Longnecker, Matthew P. Kissling, Grace E. London, Stephanie J.
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Are blood levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with pulmonary function?
Conclusion
Exposure to 1,4-dichlorobenzene, a common VOC, may lead to reduced pulmonary function in the general population.
Supporting Evidence
- 1,4-dichlorobenzene was the only VOC significantly associated with reduced pulmonary function after adjusting for smoking.
- Participants in the highest decile of 1,4-DCB concentration had significant decrements in forced expiratory volume and maximum mid-expiratory flow rate.
- Blood concentrations of VOCs may better reflect chronic exposure than air concentrations.
Takeaway
Breathing in certain chemicals found in everyday products can make it harder to breathe well.
Methodology
Data from 953 adults aged 20-59 from NHANES III were analyzed using linear regression to assess the relationship between 11 VOCs and pulmonary function.
Potential Biases
Potential unmeasured confounders may have influenced the results.
Limitations
The study is cross-sectional, making it difficult to determine causality between VOC exposure and pulmonary function decline.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adults aged 20-59, with 43.1% female and 26.3% current smokers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.04
Confidence Interval
95% CI, −297 to −8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website