Are Gas Stoves Affecting Your Health?

We often associate air pollution with the outdoors, but indoor air quality is equally crucial for our health. In Australia, around 12% of childhood asthma cases are linked to gas stoves, which emit toxic chemicals. Despite efforts to phase out gas, 38% of Australian homes still use it for cooking.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a prevalent chronic condition among Australian children, affecting nearly 400,000 kids under 14. It narrows airways, making breathing difficult. While manageable with inhalers, asthma can be severe, with over 56,000 emergency cases in 2020-21. Both indoor and outdoor air pollution play significant roles in asthma development.

Gas Stoves and Nitrogen Dioxide

Gas stoves release harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), the latter being particularly associated with asthma. Studies show homes with gas stoves can have NO2 levels three times higher than those with electric stoves, posing risks, especially for children who spend more time indoors.

Efforts to Ban Gas

There is a push to replace gas stoves with electric ones in Australia, with regions like Victoria planning bans on gas in new homes from 2024. However, the issue persists for those in older homes or rentals with gas appliances.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Using high-efficiency exhaust hoods over gas cooktops can capture over 75% of pollutants. Cooking on back burners can enhance their efficiency. However, many people don’t use exhaust hoods regularly. Natural ventilation, like opening windows, can improve air quality but may not be feasible during colder months.

Gas Heaters and Air Quality

Unflued gas heaters release pollutants indoors, while flued heaters direct emissions outside. Replacing unflued heaters with flued or electric ones can alleviate asthma symptoms. If replacement isn’t possible, avoid using unflued heaters overnight in bedrooms.

While asthma can’t be cured, managing triggers and improving indoor air quality can help control symptoms, making it easier for those with asthma to breathe.

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