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Studies indicate that gas stoves can be more dangerous than you think. Learn how frequent use can affect your health and the best practices to avoid risks!
Gas stoves, present in most homes, are increasingly being identified as a public health villain. A recent study by Spanish researchers revealed worrying data: gas stoves release nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and other pollutants that contribute to approximately 40.000 premature deaths per year in the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK).
Is a gas stove a health risk?
performed by Jaume University I and University of Valencia, the study estimates that constant use of gas stoves can reduce the average life expectancy of its users by almost two years. These devices are comparable to vehicle exhaust fumes and second-hand smoke in terms of health risks.
In the 1970s, scientists had already identified high levels of NO₂ in kitchens with gas stoves. As research progressed, it was discovered that this pollutant originates directly from inside our kitchens, an aspect that had been ignored in favor of studies focused on external pollution.
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Os researchers concluded that, especially in homes with inadequate ventilation, NO₂ levels from gas stoves can exceed the safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The research looked at homes in European countries where gas stove use is common, such as Italy, the Netherlands and the UK. By comparing indoor NO₂ levels with outdoor pollution data, the research team estimated the health impact of emissions.
Alarming result: Every year, gas stoves contribute to around 36.031 premature deaths in the EU and 3.928 in the UK.
Why do we ignore indoor pollution?
When we think of pollution, we usually associate it with large factories, cars or even cigarettes. However, indoor pollution is a growing problem. With improved insulation in modern buildings, air circulation is reduced, trapping pollutants inside.
Thus, in homes that use gas stoves, nitrogen dioxide levels can quickly reach harmful concentrations, especially in poorly ventilated kitchens.
It is estimated that over a third of households in Europe use gas cookers. In countries such as the UK, the Netherlands and Romania, over 50% of households rely on this type of appliance for cooking. In comparison, the European Union sets strict standards for outdoor air quality, but there are no similar regulations for indoor air quality.
This lack of regulation poses a greater risk to vulnerable groups, such as children and people with respiratory problems.
How can we reduce these gas stove risks?
For families concerned about the risks associated with using gas stoves, switching to electric stoves is one of the most straightforward solutions. Studies show that electric and induction stoves do not produce NO₂, benzene or carbon monoxide, making them much safer.
Juana Maria Delgado-Saborit, lead author of the study, says she is making this change in her own home, highlighting the benefits for health and the environment.
However, this change is not easy for many families. Installing electric stoves requires adequate electrical infrastructure, which can be expensive. This creates the need for subsidy policies to help low-income families make this transition.
Some countries in the European Union are already discussing new regulations to reduce emissions from gas stoves, and may even suggest phasing out these appliances in favor of safer alternatives.
Short-term measures to minimize risks
If replacing electric stoves is not possible immediately, some measures can help reduce the impacts of gas stoves:
- Ventilation: Use extractor fans or fans while cooking and keep windows open for air circulation.
- Regular Maintenance: Performing periodic maintenance on gas appliances can help minimize leaks.
These practices, although they do not eliminate pollutants, help to reduce the concentration of NO₂ in kitchens.
A global issue
Concerns about NO₂ pollution are not limited to Europe. In the United States, a similar study found that gas stoves contribute to nearly 19.000 deaths each year. With around 35% of American households using these types of stoves, some cities, such as New York and Berkeley, have already taken steps to ban gas connections in new buildings, encouraging the use of electric stoves instead.
However, in the US, this issue is quite politicized, with the Republican party generally opposing such changes.
In other regions, such as parts of Asia and Africa, indoor gas and other fuel pollution remains a major public health problem, contributing to high rates of respiratory disease.
Economic and public health benefits
Replacing gas stoves with electric stoves would not only bring improvements to individual health, but also economic benefits to society. Reducing indoor NO₂ levels would reduce the burden on public health systems, reducing cases of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Important tip: If you can't replace your gas stove now, invest in proper ventilation and avoid being in the kitchen while the stove is in use.
I would like to know if gas affects foods baked in the oven?