The following is from Children’s Health Defense.

Formaldehyde, a chemical found in everyday products and the air we breathe, poses a greater cancer risk than any other air pollutant, according to a ProPublica analysis. Despite the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) knowing its dangers for decades, millions remain exposed due to regulatory delays and industry interference.

Formaldehyde is linked to multiple cancers, including myeloid leukemia, a deadly blood cancer affecting 29,000 Americans annually. Federal air pollution data shows that every U.S. resident faces elevated cancer risks from this invisible gas, especially indoors, where it seeps from furniture, flooring, and cleaning products.

Mary Faltas, a survivor of acute myeloid leukemia, shared her experience of living in areas with dangerously high formaldehyde exposure.

“It’s like having a storm come through. You don’t see it coming, but it changes your life forever.”
Mary Faltas, leukemia survivor

Despite its known dangers, the EPA excluded formaldehyde’s link to myeloid leukemia in its recent cancer assessments. Scientists have called this decision “cowardice” and warn that delays worsen public health outcomes. Industry lobbying continues to stall regulations, as formaldehyde is crucial to producing particleboard, plastics, and adhesives.

Tracey Woodruff, professor and environmental health expert, highlighted how industry efforts have stalled reforms.

“The chemical industry’s influence over regulations has delayed action on formaldehyde, putting millions at risk.”
Tracey Woodruff, UCSF environmental health expert

Communities near oil and gas facilities face even higher risks, with residents reporting worsening respiratory and chronic health issues. Indoors, formaldehyde levels are often three times higher than what the EPA considers safe for preventing respiratory symptoms.

The EPA plans to introduce new rules later this year, but critics fear they will fall short under continued industry pressure. Cancer risks tied to formaldehyde remain unacceptably high, underscoring the urgent need for stronger regulations.

For more information, read the full article here .

The post Why isn’t the EPA acting on formaldehyde, top cancer-causing pollutant? appeared first on Sharyl Attkisson.

IPAK-EDU is grateful to Sharyl Attkisson as this piece was originally published there and is included in this news feed with mutual agreement. Read More