Commuting to work? Diesel emissions increase cancer risk

This is a guest post from Electrocorp.

Diesel exhaust emissions can affect your
health and well-being, experts say.

Exposure to diesel fumes could be causing cancer at a greater rate than previously known, researchers say.

A new long-term study by the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that miners exposed to diesel engine exhaust are three times more likely to contract fatal lung cancer, and that commuters on busy highways in smoggy, urban areas might face a similar risk.

The study was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

While diesel exhaust is currently classified as a “probable carcinogen”, health authorities will review this classification in the months to come.

A change in classifications could mean tighter regulations as well.

The study looked at 20 years of data on miners exposed to diesel exhaust and showed significant increases in the risk of lung cancer deaths with higher level of exposures, especially in miners working more than 5 years.

The study authors warn of the risks to Americans living in urban areas as well, although the risk is lower for lower doses of diesel exhaust.

Drivers getting stuck on long highway commutes may be exposed more than people standing on the sidewalk because of wind tunnel effect, experts say.

Commuters can help protect themselves by

• Leaving car windows closed on busy highways and streets
• Setting the air on “recirculate” to keep pollutants out
• Having a HEPA filter installed in the car

Newer diesel cars are much cleaner than older models, experts say, but many older models are still being used on the streets.

Source: The Sun

Want to know more about indoor air pollution and portable air purifiers that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants? Contact AllerAir for more information and personalized suggestions.

Household products filled with hormone-disrupting chemicals: Study

Many household products contain chemicals
that have been linked to health effects.

Researchers have tested more than 200 common household products and found that they contain chemicals linked to asthma and hormone disruption.

The household products included soaps, lotions, detergents, cleaners, sunscreens, air fresheners, cat litter, shaving cream, shower curtains, pillow protectors, personal care products and perfumes.

The study identified 55 chemicals that could affect human health. These included phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA) and parabens, which can all negatively affect fetuses and young children.

Part of the problem is that these chemicals are not listed on the product labels, meaning that consumers may not even be aware of the exposure, the researchers say, adding that this applies to major brand names as well as alternative products often believed to be much safer.

According to the researchers, companies should be required to provide more complete labeling, so that consumers can protect themselves.

The study, titled Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma-Associated Chemicals in Consumer Products, is published in the March 8 online edition of Environmental Health Perspectives.

Industry representatives are warning that the mere presence of chemicals does not mean they are unsafe and that the research on health effects is inconclusive.

In order to protect themselves as much as possible, experts are advising consumers to

• Choose natural (plant-based) products
• Use natural cleaning agents such as water, baking soda and vinegar
• Use less sunscreen and cover up with hats and other materials
• Avoid fragrances and scented products when possible
• Get rid of vinyl pillow and mattress protectors
• Avoid parabens in personal care products
• Use “normal” soap instead of antimicrobial products

Source: Health Day

Reduce airborne chemicals with AllerAir air purifiers

The points above are great starting points for a healthier and more natural living environment. However, many people will still be exposed to airborne chemicals and gases from building materials, furniture, paints, outdoor air pollution and other sources.

AllerAir offers portable and powerful air purifiers with activated carbon, HEPA and optional UV germicidal filtration to remove chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses, molds and other contaminants from the ambient air.

With many customizable options and different air filters, AllerAir air purifiers can handle virtually any indoor air concern, including

• General purpose air cleaning
• Mold
• Allergy and Asthma
• Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS)
• Tobacco smoke
• And more

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 

Smog, air pollution, wildfire smoke – how to protect yourself

Smog and air pollution can be harmful to human health.

Smog warnings and a thick haze lying over cities in the morning have become a familiar sight for many commuters.

But even though the smog “disappears” as the day warms up, the air pollutants stay behind.

Smog air pollution contains a wide range of contaminants that can affect human health, including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds and particulates.

Vehicle emissions reacting with sunlight generate ozone, which has been linked with eye irritation, decreased lung function and poor visibility.

Health consequences linked to air pollution can vary significantly, from discomfort to premature death.

Health effects also depend on an individual’s age, sensitivities, state of health, exposure, weather and daily habits.

What you can do

• Keep children and sensitive people indoors during high smog episodes
• Keep windows and doors closed during pollution events to avoid harmful build-up of pollutants indoors, but open them for increased ventilation and fresh air as soon as it’s safe.
• Invest in a charcoal air filter for the air conditioning system or a portable activated carbon room air purifier (with carbon, HEPA and possibly UV filters)

Source: Jamaica Gleaner

Room air purifiers help reduce indoor air pollution

Air pollution outdoors becomes even more dangerous when it gets inside.

AllerAir's AirMedic Series:
Powerful room air purifiers.

Today’s airtight buildings and poor ventilation systems often lead to a buildup of harmful toxins inside, where they can be breathed in by some of the most susceptible groups of the population – infants, young children and the elderly.

A room air purifier with the right type of filters can help remove contaminants such as chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and molds and help keep the air clean.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with their deep-bed activated carbon filters, HEPA and optional UV germicidal filtration.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
  

Monsanto and West Virginia residents reach settlement in lawsuit

Residents fearing chemical exposure
can be monitored at the hospital.

A huge class-action lawsuit was settled out of court after chemical company Monsanto and residents agreed to settlement conditions.

Residents in Nitro, West Virginia, have sued Monsanto, claiming that the chemical company unsafely burned dioxin wastes and polluted homes with unsafe levels of the chemical.

The Monsanto plant has produced herbicides, rubber products and other chemicals for more than 50 years.

Their production of Agent Orange created dioxin as a toxic chemical byproduct, the lawsuit alleges.

Dioxins are regarded as persistent organic pollutants.

They have been considered highly toxic and able to cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system, interfere with hormones and also cause cancer. The chemical builds up in tissue over time, so even small exposures can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Worried about exposure to contaminated soot and dust in their homes, the Nitro residents filed the lawsuit in 2004, seeking medical monitoring for at least 5,000 (and maybe up to 80,000) current and former Nitro residents.

According to an article by Associated Press, the settlement creates an initial $21 million fund, plus up to $63 million more for Nitro residents to have their health monitored over 30 years at a local hospital.

It also provides $9 million to pay for professional cleaning of thousands of homes. Monsanto also has agreed to pay the residents’ legal fees.

The agreement allows thousands of current and former Nitro residents to apply for benefits.

Sources: Charleston Gazette, Washington Post

Use an air purifier to reduce airborne chemicals in your home

Whether it’s from outdoor pollution or from materials used inside, the air in many homes is considerably more polluted than outdoor air.

5000 Vocarb
air purifier

Since we spend up to 90 percent of our time inside, this can quickly become a health hazard.

AllerAir offers portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants, including airborne chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust, mold, bacteria and viruses.

The air purifiers feature a large activated carbon filter for gaseous pollutants, a HEPA filter for particles and dust and optional UV germicidal filtration for the neutralization of biological contaminants.

See what difference an air purifier makes – contact AllerAir today for more information and options.
  

Tiny particles in air pollution more dangerous than thought: Scientists

Air pollution models may underestimate the amount
of tiny aerosol particles, scientists warn.

For more than 20 years, scientists have warned that tiny particles (smaller than one thirtieth of  the diameter of a human hair) are most dangerous to human health.

The particles have been linked to heart and lung disease and contribute to the death of 50,000 Americans each year.

But scientists have recently learned that there is more to tiny particles than they previously thought.

Recent studies have shown that secondary organic aerosols (a subset of these particles) have a greater total mass and could therefore be much more harmful than previously thought.

Researchers in California have realized that older scientific models may downplay the dangers of these particles, which are much more persistent, and that measures to control pollution only addressed part of the problem.

Secondary organic aerosol particles are formed when pollutants and natural chemical compounds interact.
Scientists previously thought that these gaseous byproducts would incorporate into tiny airborne drops, which would soon evaporate.

However, the new study shows that instead they attach themselves to airborne organic particles and create tiny tar balls that persist much longer than previously thought.

That is why the scientists warn that older scientific models could seriously underestimate the amount of fine particles in the air.

Source: New York Times

Do something against air pollution from outside coming in

Air purifiers for the home and office from
AllerAir

Polluted outdoor air and smog is a reality in many urban communities, and the pollutants may enter homes through windows and doors, cracks and other openings.

Luckily, homeowners can help keep indoor air pollution to a minimum by running a high-quality air purifier with activated carbon, HEPA and other filters.

AllerAir has designed powerful air purifiers for the home and office that remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants – including chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold.

With an extensive product line and numerous options, AllerAir can provide the right air filtration solution for virtually any indoor air quality problem.

Contact AllerAir for more information and personalized suggestions.

Cleaning experts tout natural alternatives

Cleaning products found on store shelves often
contain harmful chemicals and toxins.

It’s March, and that means spring cleaning is just around the corner!

But if your arsenal of cleaning products includes a variety of store-bought products, you could be putting your health at risk.

Many household cleaners on store shelves today contain toxic ingredients and volatile organic compounds that have been linked to health problems in humans.

According to the EPA, chemicals in household cleaners are three times more likely to cause cancer than air pollution. Most people spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors and cleaning is a regular part of household duties.

Thankfully, there are many available alternatives, which are not only safer but also often much less expensive.

However, beware of traditional products jumping onto the green bandwagon and making claims that are suspect or downright false.

Third-party certifications or a look at the manufacturers; data sheets will provide some reliable answers – or homeowners can make their own cleaning solutions.

Homemade cleaners do not have preservatives, so it’s better to make small batches and use them up quickly.

Use sponges or washable rags when cleaning – it’s much more environmentally friendly than paper towels and single-use cleaning pads.

Here are some cleaning agents that are non-toxic, effective and easily available:

• Baking soda: Fights odors and can be used as a scrubbing paste
• Vinegar: Natural cleaner and disinfectant; the smell disappears after a few minutes
• Castile soap: Foaming cleaner
• Olive oil: Great for polishing wood furniture and picking up dust
• Lemon juice: Grease fighter, disinfectant, fresh smell

Source: The Journal Sentinel

Reduce airborne chemicals with air purifiers

Toxic cleaning products are not the only sources of potentially harmful chemicals in the home.

Other household items can
contribute to indoor air pollution.

Common building materials, paints, furniture, air fresheners, dry-cleaned clothes and other products can emit chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

A high-quality air purifier with activated carbon and other filters can help keep the air clean and healthy. Activated carbon is the safest and most effective filtration media for the removal of airborne chemicals and VOCs, odors and fumes.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office contain not only the largest activated carbon filters but also HEPA filters, pre-filters and optional UV germicidal filtration to trap and neutralize particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold as well.

Contact AllerAir for more information and more options.
  

Study links infertility in men to chemicals

Many couples are struggling with infertility.

New research shows that high levels of organochlorine chemicals PCBs and a DDT breakdown product can lead to an extra sex chromosome for men and contribute to fertility problems.

Although the chemicals have long been banned due to health concerns, they still persist in the environment and in people. DDT’s breakdown form p,p’-DDE is very stable and can be found in most people, since it accumulates in fatty tissue.

According to the study involving men in Massachusetts, the male participants with higher levels of the chemicals in their blood were also up to 60 percent more likely to have sperm with too many sex chromosomes.

The chemicals may also be to blame for decreased quality of sperm.

An embryo or fetus with an abnormal number of chromosomes is one of the leading causes of miscarriages and birth defects.

Both the mother and the father donate a chromosome in the egg – an X from the mother and an X or Y from the father (when the chromosomes come together at fertilization, it will be XX for the girl and XY for a boy).

The study shows that the abnormal number of sex chromosomes overwhelmingly comes from the fathers and while several reasons may be to blame, researchers have identified environmental exposure as one possible cause.

Besides the chemicals mentioned above, researchers have identified benzene and some pesticides as having similar effects on sperm.

The study was published in Environmental Health Perspectives.

Source: Environmental Health News

Reduce exposure to airborne chemicals with high-quality air purifiers

AllerAir offers portable air purifiers with many pounds of activated carbon and other air filters to help keep the ambient air clean.

The air purifiers can help remove airborne chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses and mold as well as other irritants.

Contact AllerAir today for more information and personalized suggestions.
 

New report on chemicals law gives pointers to U.S.

Many new chemicals are flooding the market each year.

The United States Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) is almost 40 years old and most people agree that it needs to be updated.

However, industry officials, lawmakers and environmental groups have different opinions as to what the new legislation should look like.

A new report from Indiana University examines the European Union’s new law, which went into effect in 2006.

Their new chemicals law is called REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), and the Indiana researchers say the United States can learn a lot from the European experience with REACH.

The EU law makes the industry responsible for proving the safety of the chemical, not government.

The key principle in the registration process is “no data, no market”, meaning manufacturers, producers and importers need to provide a minimum safety-related data set for many existing chemicals.

A clear definition of safety is important in any chemicals law reform, the researchers say.

The US should focus on reducing risks to human health and the environment and make it easier for industry to comply by allowing cross-Atlantic recognition of registration dossiers.

Source: Indiana University

Chemicals remain a concern

With the burden of proof of safety (or danger) resting on government, most US residents continue to be exposed to a wide variety of chemicals that may or may not be harmful to human health.

In some cases, for example bisphenol A, phthalates, formaldehyde, tetrachloroethylene and more, the danger has been identified, yet the chemicals continue to be around.

AllerAir offers powerful and portable air purifiers with the right air filters to remove a wide range of airborne chemicals, gases, fumes and odors while also trapping particles, dust, bacteria, viruses, mold and pollen.

Many pounds of granular activated carbon are the best defense against potentially harmful chemicals, along with source control and ventilation.

For more information and air purifier options, contact AllerAir today.
 

More adults developing allergies, doctors warn

Doctors say more adults suddenly suffer from allergies.

It’s a growing trend that doctors have been witnessing: Adults who have never been allergic to anything suddenly develop serious allergies.

Sometimes it can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

The first signs may be a tingling, swelling and a rash. When people experience a serious sudden allergic reaction, their blood pressure can fall, they can faint and have to be rushed to the hospital.

Even if people eat certain foods all of their life, they may develop a sudden allergy to it, doctors say, depending on the concentration and timing of it.

Sometimes, the immune system will simply be overwhelmed.

Doctors say there is a lack of studies about adult-onset allergies and the fact that many childhood allergies may be outgrown over the years.

Source: CBS Pittsburgh

Air purifiers for allergies and asthma

AllerAir's AirMedic+ Series:
For allergy and asthma sufferers

Children and adults suffering from allergies to airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen and other contaminants can often find relief by using an air purifier in the bedroom or the rooms they frequent the most.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for allergies and asthma are equipped with medical-grade HEPA filters as well as a deep-bed activated carbon filter and pre-filters to remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants and irritants.

HEPA is the gold standard when it comes to allergens, pollen, particles and dust, while activated carbon can remove many chemicals, gases and odors that can aggravate or cause allergies and asthmatic conditions.

Optional UV germicidal filtration adds extra protection from biological pollutants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
 

Exposures to solvent early in life could lead to drug abuse: Study

Study reports high-risk behaviors in people who
were exposed to dry cleaning chemical early in life.

A new study has found that adults who were exposed to contaminated drinking water before birth and during early childhood were more likely to show risky behaviors later on in life.

The study focused on water that was contaminated with tetrachloroethylene (PCE), an industrial solvent.

Those who were exposed early in life were far more likely to use cigarettes, drugs and alcohol, the researchers found.

Previous animal and human studies reported similar changes in human behavior.

Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is a solvent that is used in many industries, as a metal degreaser and as dry cleaning fluid.

The chemical was used in the vinyl lining in water supply lines in the Cape Cod area of Massachusetts, exposing residents in 100 towns and cities to the solvent.

For the study, researchers contacted Cape Cod residents in their late 20s and early 30s and asked about their drug and cigarette use.

Those participants with the highest PCE exposure were 60 times more likely to use two or more illicit drugs as a teenager or young adult than those with no measurable PCE exposure. The risk for cocaine use was twice as high.

Since it wasn’t possible to confirm exactly how much PCE each individual was exposed to, more studies may be needed, the researchers say.

Source: Environmental Health News

Reduce exposure to airborne chemicals

Contaminated drinking water is a problem in some areas, but did you know that most households expose residents to chemicals, gases and fumes, among other pollutants?

AllerAir offers high-quality air purifiers for the home and office with many pounds of activated carbon and HEPA air filters to remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants.

The activated carbon is the safest and most effective filtration media for the removal of gaseous pollutants like chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

With air purifiers for general purpose use as well as models with deeper beds of carbon for superior chemical and odor control, AllerAir has a solution for virtually any indoor air quality concern.

Contact AllerAir for more information.
  

Dizzy from cleaning? Blame the chemicals (VIDEO)

Cleaning the home is a necessary evil - but why do some products make people feel dizzy and nauseated?

Some scented cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that have been linked to these health effects, according to this news report.



  
While only a small percentage of the population may be affected by the chemicals, some experts say it is better to go for more natural products and read the labels - if you can't pronounce the ingredients, chances are they are bad for you.

Want to know more about indoor air pollution and complete air purification solutions? AllerAir offers portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with a combination of activated carbon, HEPA and other filters. Contact AllerAir for more information.

Asthma becoming more common in adults

Researchers stumped as to why asthma rates are rising

Poor air quality can cause or aggravate asthma.

Many people who have asthma as children will outgrow it – but health professionals are diagnosing more and more adults with the lung disease.

Asthma is a respiratory disease that is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Researchers say there are more people with lifetime asthma or developing asthma later in life.

They are not quite sure why that is, but possible risk factors may include allergens in the air, infections, air pollution and poor indoor air quality (exposure to pet dander, mold, dust mites, tobacco smoke).

Genetics can also be a factor.

For adults, women are more likely to have asthma than men, and blacks are more likely than whites to develop asthma.

Luckily, asthma can usually be controlled and managed, as long as people know their triggers and take necessary precautions.

Source: The Star

Air purifiers for people with asthma

An air purifier can be a powerful tool in the fight against asthma.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for asthma and allergy can help remove common asthma triggers and pollutants, including pet dander, mold, dust, particles, chemicals, tobacco smoke and other irritants.

The AirMedic+ Series is designed with a 360-degree air intake that provides superior particle control and air cleaning capabilities.

Consult AllerAir’s sizing and model selection guides for more information, or contact an IAQ expert today.
  
Related posts:

• Air purifiers in the bedroom helps asthma sufferers: Study
• Over-the-counter inhalers disappear from shelves
• Dust mite toddler test predicts future asthma risk
• Mold exposure in infancy raises asthma risk

Deadly wildfires responsible for 339,000 deaths per year

Wildfires spew tons of tiny particles into the air.

Landscape fires -- including wildfires, peat fires and controlled burns on farming lands -- are much more dangerous than previously thought.

According to a Vancouver study, 339,000 people die each year because these fires.

Sub-Saharan Africa bears most of those deaths at 157,000, while in Southeast Asia the death toll is 110,000.

Researchers say they are surprised by the numbers because wildfires are a seasonal phenomenon, meaning exposure to wildfire smoke is intermittent at best.

In order to determine a death toll linked to wildfires, the researchers looked at all deaths in areas that were covered with heavy smoke and landscape fire between 1997 and 2006.

They were particularly interested in the health effects of small particulate matter, which is a main byproduct of wildfire smoke.

Wildfire smoke does not represent as great a danger as indoor air pollution (2 million deaths per year worldwide) and urban air pollution (800,000 people per year), but it could be considered an additional risk factor for global mortality.

Researchers are warning that wildfires will get more severe in the future as the globe gets warmer.

Wildfires are difficult to manage and contain, and it’s expensive to fight them, they say.

The study was published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

Source: AFP

Breathe better indoor air with air purifiers

Indoor air pollution, urban air pollution and wildfire smoke pose serious hazards to human health.

AirMedic Series:
Room air purifiers

Outdoor pollutants will find a way into the home, where they can build up – which why indoor air quality is such an important topic.

An air purifier with the right filters can help remove pollutants and provide healthier air.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office contain a deep-bed activated carbon filter for airborne chemicals, gases, odors and fumes, a HEPA filter for tiny particles and dust, pre-filters and optional UV germicidal filtration to help neutralize viruses, bacteria and mold.

For wildfire smoke and other indoor air pollutants, AllerAir recommends its 5000 DS or 6000 DS models, the AirMedic Series and general purpose air purifiers.

For more information and personalized suggestions, please contact AllerAir.

Poor air quality indoors can make you sick

Experts share tips on improving indoor air quality.

The air in homes is often more polluted than outdoor air, according to experts, and since most people tend to spend 90 percent of their time indoors, this prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution may lead to poor health.

Indoor air pollution is caused by a wide range of synthetic materials commonly found in homes, including paints, plastics, household cleaners, particleboard furniture and more. These can off-gas chemicals and volatile organic compounds into the ambient air.

Other indoor air contaminants include dust, pollen, mold and other allergens that can cause reactions in sensitive people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, indoor allergens can lead to infections and respiratory problems.

In order to avoid problems with indoor air quality in the home, experts are asking homeowners to make sure that they

• Avoid adding more contaminants by using more natural products and cleaning agents and letting new materials air out before using them indoors
   
• Monitor everyone’s health symptoms to see if allergy symptoms or other ailments can be traced back to the air quality inside
   
• Maintain the ventilation system and replace filters often, every 3-6 months
   
• Open windows regularly if the weather and outdoor air allow it
   
• Fix any plumbing problems or water leaks promptly to prevent mold from growing (mold can start growing after 24-48 hours of standing water)
   
• If you suspect an air quality problem without being able to pin down the cause, call professionals or look into high-quality testing kits.
   
• Use a portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA to help remove pollutants such as chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, allergens and pathogens.

Source: News 8000

Get the most filtration media for the best price

AllerAir offers highly efficient and portable air purifiers for the home and office that contain the most relevant filtration media in their price range.

AllerAir's
5000 Exec
air purifier

One of their most popular general purpose air purifiers, the 5000 Exec, features an 18 lb. carbon filter and medical-grade HEPA as well as pre-filters and optional UV filtration for maximum protection.

Activated carbon is the best filter media for chemicals, gases, odors, vapors and fumes – including formaldehyde, benzene, toluene and most household odors.

For allergy and asthma sufferers, AllerAir also developed a highly efficient air purifier for particle concerns, the AirMedic Series.

These air purifiers have a 360-degree air intake and feature the best HEPA and particle filters as well as a deep bed of activated carbon for all-around protection from allergens and other irritants.

For more information, contact AllerAir today.

Air pollution risks: Stroke and memory loss

Bad air quality days have been linked to a higher risk
of stroke and memory loss, according to new studies.

By now, we all know that living in a metropolitan city, near a busy highway or close to industry is bad for your health.

But researchers are still figuring out just how bad it is. Previously, air pollution has been linked with problems of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, heart and lung diseases.

Now you can add two more risks of air pollution to the list – stroke and memory loss.

Two studies in the Archives of Internal Medicine have come to these conclusions after watching Boston area residents on Good and Moderate air quality days and after monitoring women in higher-pollution areas in the US.

The women in the second study experienced a faster long-term decline in thinking and memory skills, researchers found.

This means that even levels generally considered safe by health authorities could affect people’s health negatively, experts say.

Whenever air quality is deteriorating, experts advise people with respiratory diseases to stay indoors, especially during the rush hour times.

The Boston study shows that air pollution might impede the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure (when blood vessels dilate and constrict in response to the environment to keep it constant), which in turn increases the risk of stroke for certain people.

The same reason could lead to the memory loss documented in the second study, since air pollution may affect blood flow to the brain and therefore cognitive function, researchers say.

Women should not be too concerned by these findings, they suggest, but the results may warrant further research into the effects of air pollution on thinking and memory.

Source: Reuters

Make sure you breathe clean indoor air

While experts suggest for people susceptible to outdoor air pollution to stay indoors on bad air quality days, indoor air pollution may be just as bad if not worse for people’s health.

Most indoor environments feature a variety of pollutants and aggravating agents, including airborne chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, dust, particles, bacteria, viruses and mold.

AllerAir's air purifiers for the home and office
feature activated carbon and HEPA air filters.

Apart from source control and adequate ventilation, a portable and powerful air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA air filters can make a huge difference in the air quality inside the home.

Activated carbon is the most important filter media to remove chemicals, gases, odors and vapors, while HEPA is an important filter for particles, dust and allergens.

See also AllerAir's general purpose air purifiers, air purifiers for allergies and asthma and the whole home air cleaners.

For more information, contact AllerAir today.
  

Proposed perfume ban speaks volumes

A growing number of people are allergic to
perfumes and fragrances, experts say.

Officials seek to protect allergy sufferers from strong smells and irritants

The bill to ban public workers in New Hampshire from wearing fragrances or scented products at the workplace was shot down, but it speaks volumes about the growing problem of allergies and asthma as well as chemical sensitivities.

The proposed bill aimed to curb perfume and fragrances for workers that interact with the public, since the chemicals and toxins in perfume may lead to allergic reactions in people, including nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose.

The bill was proposed because of a growing number of people who are sensitive to odors, a Republican leader told the Daily Mail.

However, it may not have been passed because some people consider it to be a constitutional conflict between individual rights and health effects on the occasional customer.

Up to one in 20 people suffer from a perfume allergy, which can not only result in sinus problems but also cause skin rashes, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.

According to doctors, people with asthma are often also chemically sensitive and could find fragrances irritating.

This includes perfumes, air fresheners and other scented products.

Source: Daily Mail

Remove chemicals and irritants from your indoor air

AllerAir's 5000 Series:
Powerful air purifiers

Since perfume and fragrances are a seemingly unavoidable part of daily life, at least people with allergies, asthma and chemical sensitivities can make sure that the air they are breathing at home or at work is the cleanest air possible.

AllerAir offers portable and highly efficient air purifiers for the home and office with the most effective air filters for chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, allergens and other irritants.

Whether it’s an air purifier for allergy and asthma or an air purifier for MCS (multiple chemical sensitivity), AllerAir’s units feature the largest amounts of carbon in deep-bed carbon filters to remove the widest range of odors, chemicals, VOCs and gases.

The units also come with HEPA filters and pre-filters to trap particles, dust and allergens.

For more information, please contact AllerAir.

Chemical exposure linked to childhood obesity

Obesity is a growing
problem among children.

Growing up, many children like to to try out new cosmetic products or fragrances. Many of these products contain chemicals such as phthalates, which may be linked to childhood obesity.

According to a recent study in New York City, overweight children had higher urinary concentrations of phthalates, a trend that was not seen in normal weight children.

The relationship was evident only with one phthalate called MEP (monoethylene phthalate).

The study results are consistent with previous studies showing similar associations between the phthalate MEP and obesity in teens and women.

Experts worry about the growing childhood obesity epidemic and blame different factors, including poor diet and lack of exercise as well as exposure to environmental contaminants.

Children may be more affected by environmental pollution because their bodies and organs are still developing and they eat more, drink more and breathe more in proportion to their body size.

Phthalates can be found in many plastic products, in medical devices, food packaging, flooring, food processing equipment, personal care products (perfumes and cosmetics) and more. They can leach from these products and be inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin.

Some phthalates have been identified as endocrine disrupting compounds that can interfere with hormones.

Source: Environmental Health News

Filter out airborne pollutants

AllerAir air purifiers with carbon,
HEPA and UV (optional).

Environmental pollution is a big concern and can be present in all areas of our lives, especially at home, in school and at work.

A complete air purification system with activated carbon, HEPA and (optional) UV germicidal filtration can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants and help keep the air clean.

Activated carbon is the most effective filter media for the removal of airborne chemicals, gases, VOCs and odors, while HEPA is the gold standard for particle filtration. UV helps neutralize contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

AllerAir offers portable and powerful general purpose air purifiers as well as specialized units, for example for Chemical and Odor Control, MCS, Allergies and Asthma, Tobacco Smoke and Mold.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
  

VIDEO: Causes and health effects of indoor air pollution

This is an oldie, but a goodie. The information in this public service announcement still holds true and is even more important today.

The video talks about indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, which is a part of countless household products (including insulation, cosmetic products and carpets, for example), perchloroethylene (the dry cleaning fluid perc that builds up on dry-cleaned clothes) and other fragrances and chemicals.

Some solutions to think about include:

• Using non-toxic cleaners like vinegar and baking soda
• Letting houseplants like Aloe vera and Boston fern help clean the air
• Running a complete air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA continuously on a low setting to remove the widest range of contaminants, including chemicals such as formaldehyde and perc, particles, dust, pollen, odors, bacteria, viruses and molds.

Want to know more about indoor air quality concerns and user-friendly solutions? Contact AllerAir today.

Mothballs and other chemical hazards in the home

Mothball products have a pungent smell.

Do you know someone that uses mothballs in the home?

Many people understandably dislike having moths around – for fear of losing their wool clothing and because they are insects.

That is why people might reach for mothballs, insecticides in solid form that slowly emit toxic fumes to kill moths and other insects.

Older mothballs consisted primarily of naphthalene, but due to naphthalene's flammability, modern mothballs use 1,4-dichlorobenzene instead.

Both of these ingredients have a strong, pungent odor often associated strongly with mothballs. Both chemicals kill moths and moth larvae with the vapor.

Mothballs are supposed to be used with the clothing in an airtight container, so that the gas does not escape and harm pets or people in the home. When opening the container, it is best to let the clothes air out before using them.

The intended use for mothballs makes it clear that toxic chemicals are being used, yet many people use mothballs out in the open where they can become hazard.

Instead of using chemicals to fight moths, try making your own moth-repelling sachets filled with dried rosemary and mint, dried thyme and ginseng and whole cloves.

Other effective herbs include lavender, lemon, sweet woodruff and tansy.

The same chemicals that can be found in mothballs are also used in other moth products (crystals and cakes) as well as toilet bow deodorizers.

Source: The Day Publishing

Reduce chemical hazards in the home

AllerAir's air purifiers for
general purpose air cleaning.

Using more natural products, increasing ventilation and air cleaning can help keep the air clean and the chemical count low.

An efficient air cleaner (like AllerAir's 5000 Series) needs to be equipped with a deep bed of activated carbon, HEPA and optional UV germicidal filtration to be able to remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants.

Activated carbon is the safest and most trusted filtration media for the adsorption of airborne chemicals, VOCs, gases, odors and fumes.

HEPA is the gold standard for particle filtration and can trap up to 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns.
UV can help neutralize biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and molds.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office feature the most relevant filtration media (activated carbon and HEPA) at the best price.

For more information, contact AllerAir directly.
  

Black mold may lead to poor health symptoms

WWE Smackdown host and recording artist Lilian Garcia fights the effects of black mold

Lilian Garcia still suffers from the
effects of black mold exposure.

She may be famous in certain circles, but that doesn’t mean she is immune to the effects of black mold exposure.

Lilian Garcia began feeling sick and dizzy when she lived in a lake house in South Carolina for two and a half years.

The home had black mold, and Garcia reacted badly to it. Still, it took years before she was diagnosed with mold allergies brought on by that exposure.

Even after she moved away, she was still suffering after-effects of black mold, including infections and other ailments.

Garcia has launched a campaign to raise awareness about mold allergies and help sufferers.

Chronic symptoms related to mold allergies include

• Sinus pain
• Respiratory illness
• Wheezing
• Headaches
• Lethargy
• Memory loss
• And more

Garcia also champions a new way of eating, as in her experience certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of mold allergies. These foods include cheeses, dairy, pickled foods, dried fruits and more.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Use air filters to reduce exposure to mold

While it is important to take care of the living environment and to prevent and mitigate mold from growing, mold spores are still a natural part of the environment and cannot be eliminated.

However, using powerful air purifiers with the right filters in the home can help keep the air clean and easier to breathe.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the Home and Office feature many pounds of activated carbon to remove irritating chemicals, gases, odors and mold mycotoxins, HEPA filter to trap tiny particles and pathogens, pre-filters and optional UV germicidal filtration to neutralize biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Read more about AllerAir’s air purifiers for mold, or speak to someone by contacting AllerAir today.

Fireplaces cause harmful wood smoke: report

Wood stoves and heaters can emit harmful particles,
experts say.

Winter is traditionally the time for sitting in front of a cozy fire or wood heater and enjoying the crackling warmth.

However, the wood smoke generated by these fires may add billions to health bills, according to an Australian report.

In Sydney, the smoke from wood fires is the biggest source of air pollution in winter, and the haze will add $8 billion to the health budget by 2030, the report says.

Those are preventable costs, the researchers say, but some measures may be needed to curb the use of wood as a heating fuel.

Wood heaters release a range of tiny particles into the ambient air. Sometimes, these particles can be seen as a smoky haze, but even if they are not visible, these particles can lead to medical problems.

The polluted air especially affects people with

• Heart disease
• Lung disease
• Inflammation of the lungs
• Bronchitis
• Asthma

Some studies have linked wood smoke pollutants to cancer, birth defects and nervous system disorders.
According to the report, rural areas have more wood heaters and may expose people living there to the haze.

Officials are debating how to control the wood smoke pollution. One idea brought forward was a tax on wood fuel.

Source: Sydney Morning Herald

Take care of your indoor air

When it’s starting to get hazy and cold outside, people need to make sure the air they are breathing indoors is healthy.

Unfortunately, most indoor environments are polluted by contaminants such as chemicals, gases, particles, allergens, mold, bacteria, viruses and more.

That is why many people turn to portable air purifiers to help keep the air clean. With the right air filters, an air purifier can help remove those pollutants and will move the air around while cleaning it.

AllerAir’s powerful air purifiers contain a complete air purification system with activated carbon, HEPA and (optional) UV filters, which provide the most protection from airborne pollutants.

Check out AllerAir’s general purpose air purifiers, air cleaners for tobacco (and wood) smoke as well as other specialized IAQ concerns.

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 

Is vinegar a good cleaning alternative in the home?

Homeowners can make their own
cleaners with vinegar, hot water
and  soap, expert says.

With experts sounding the alarm over harsh chemicals and toxins in commercial cleaning products, many people are turning to natural alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice.

But do these products clean as well as their synthetic rivals?

According to Professor Peter Collignon, infectious disease physician at the Australian National University's Medical School, who was interviewed for a report by ABC, vinegar is a viable alternative to commercial cleaning products.

It may not be as effective as the commercial products, but vinegar is a useful disinfectant that can be used in every household, he says.

What is vinegar?

Vinegar is about 5% acetic acid, the compound that kills bacteria and viruses.

Researchers found that vinegar can kill off the flu virus, but that it won’t touch some types of salmonella that could hide on chopping boards, for example.

Vinegar is a good alternative and non-toxic cleaning agent because it forces people to keep it simple, Collignon says.

The best way for people to clean their homes is with hot soapy water and some elbow grease to get rid of organic material.

Commercial cleaning products might make it easier, but it might also be overdoing it and over-using chemicals, he says.

Source: ABC

Clean the air with portable air purifiers

Just as over-using chemicals in the home is not a good idea, neither is breathing in too many volatile organic compounds in the home.

Along with source control (using more natural products) and ventilation (opening the windows regularly), a complete air purification system with activated carbon, HEPA and UV can help keep the air clean.

AllerAir offers air purifiers for the home and office with the most relevant filtration media at the best price. The deep-bed activated carbon filters remove a wide range of chemicals, gases, odors and VOCs.

The HEPA filter traps up to 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. The UV germicidal filtration helps neutralize biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
  

Student housing issues: Mold problems

Mold is a potential health hazard.

When students leave their parents’ house for the first time in their lives to live close to the campus of their choice, many are looking forward to the new experience and becoming independent.

But what if their new living conditions become unbearable?

In many cases, landlords are not liable when it comes to mold and other indoor air quality issues.

The Student Government Association at West Virginia University is asking for a bill to be passed to protect tenants facing mold in their homes.

What is mold?

Mold is a common indoor air pollutant because can easily grow on surfaces if there is enough water or humidity.

Mold spores are everywhere in the environment, and they can grow in visible spots or remain hidden behind drywall and underneath floors.

If there is a water leak or plumbing problem with standing water, mold can start growing after 24 -48 hours, experts say.

Health effects of mold

Mold exposure can lead to sneezing
and respiratory irritation.

Exposure to mold can make some people sick. Health effects can include sneezing, watery eyes, eye, nose and throat irritation, aggravated asthma and allergies, and more.

At West Virginia University, many students have become sick from mold and were forced to move out. However, they are still required to pay rent because landlords are not being liable.

The student association wants both parties to be able to work together to fix the problems in a timely manner and avoid health issues.

Source: The Daily Athenaeum 

How to remove mold and other indoor air pollutants

Mold needs to be removed once it is detected, but disturbing the mold will cause mold spores to become airborne, so it has to be done properly and with the right materials.

• Fix the problem. If you just get rid of the mold, but the water/humidity problem is still there, the mold will just grow back.
    
• Control humidity. Make sure the space is well ventilated, use a dehumidifier if needed and take steps to keep humidity levels at 30-50%.
    
• Remove the mold. If there is not too much mold, you can remove it yourself. Refer to the EPA’s mold removal instructions and make sure you use masks and other protective equipment.
   
• Use an air purifier. An air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA plus optional UV can help remove a wide range of indoor air contaminants, including mold, chemicals, gases, odors, particles, allergens, bacteria, viruses and dust.

AllerAir offers portable air purifiers for mold, allergy and asthma as well as odor and chemical control, among other specializations.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.

What is a healthy home?

Tips to make a home healthier and to improve
indoor air quality.

The question of what constitutes a healthy home is coming up more frequently now, since a barrage of studies have linked poor indoor air quality and environmental pollutants emitted by household products and building materials to a host of health concerns.

A growing number of North Americans are also affected by asthma or allergies, which are often caused by or aggravated by indoor air pollutants.

Common indoor air contaminants in the home include dust mites and mold, chemicals and gases as well as other irritants.

Here are some tips to make a home healthier:

• Clean regularly. By adhering to a regular cleaning schedule that includes dusting with a wet cloth, vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum and wet mopping, it is easier to keep dust and other pollutants under control (especially for young children house dust is a main venue of exposure). However, homeowners should swap their commercial cleaning products with natural or greener alternatives to avoid spreading more harmful chemicals throughout the space.
    
• Choose the right materials. Avoid press-board products that can emit formaldehyde and instead opt for solid wood furniture and bed frames. When painting, choose the low-VOC paints. When it’s time to replace a mattress, go with organic products or natural latex-foam mattresses rather than petroleum-based ones. Organic bed sheets and pillows will reduce exposure to chemicals.
   
• Develop a green thumb. Certain houseplants can help clean the air naturally. Some examples are bamboo and ferns. But don’t overdo it with the plants – too many could throw off the humidity level in the home. If you can't afford to buy all-organic produce, consider composting and tending a small garden in the backyard or on the balcony.
    
• Improve the indoor air quality. The home needs to be properly ventilated and the HVAC system needs to be maintained properly. An easy and inexpensive way to increase ventilation is by opening the windows. When that is not a good option, portable air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA can help improve the air quality, experts say.
    
• Beware of “green washing”. A lack of regulations and standards makes it easy for companies to make organic or green claims, even for substandard products. Always do your research and opt for certified organic products over others.

Source: Hampton Roads

The right air filters help promote good indoor air quality

A complete air filtration system for the home and office needs many pounds of activated carbon, a HEPA filter and pre-filters as well as UV germicidal filtration (optional).

AllerAir’s portable air purifiers for the home and office feature the most relevant filtration media for virtually any indoor air concern at the most advantageous price, guaranteed.

AllerAir specializes in air purifiers for MCS, allergy and asthma, mold, general purpose and tobacco smoke.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.