Regular Use Of Bleach Increases Risk Of Lung Disease

Scientists have alerted the global community that regular use of bleach, spray and other common disinfectants used in cleaning was capable of increasing risk of lung disease...

To this end, a researcher from the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Orianne Dumas, said the findings highlight the need for updated guidelines in cleaning and disinfection in healthcare settings that would take occupational health risks into account.
According to a new study published in the ‘New England Journal of Medicine,’ the use of disinfectants was linked to a higher risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory (non-reversible) asthma, and some forms of bronchiectasis.

The disease, characterised by increasing breathlessness, could lead to fatal outcomes, especially if not well managed.
Although, many people mistook increased breathlessness and coughing as part of a normal process of ageing, in the early stages of the disease, an affected person may not notice the symptoms.
COPD can develop for years without noticeable shortness of breath.

The study was conducted by scientists from Harvard University and the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM).The finding showed that COPD, a debilitating medical condition, was often linked to long-term use of quaternary ammonium compounds, known as ‘quats,’ which were found in everyday floor and surface disinfectants.Products containing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and bleach, were also associated with the disease, which was most commonly diagnosed in heavy smokers and those that had suffered long-term exposure to dust and pollution, ‘The Telegraph’ reported.Apart from residents of Western nations, some Nigerian citizens were also at risk of COPD, considering their exposure to these products.

For instance, bleach an everyday product, was used mostly for laundry and for other domestic purposes.Although, disinfectants had previously been associated with an increased risk of respiratory problems such as asthma, the new study was thought to be the first to identify a link between COPD and specific cleaning chemicals known as quaternary ammonium compounds (quats).