Harmful Substances Comparable to Automobile Exhaust
US Moves to Ban Gas Ranges, Electric Ranges Recommended
A recent study has found that gas stoves, which are used daily, emit harmful substances at levels comparable to automobile exhaust. In fact, a survey revealed that 3 out of 10 workers who stand in front of gas stoves for extended periods in cafeterias and similar settings showed signs of lung abnormalities, bringing renewed attention to the risks of kitchen environments.
Kang Sangwook, a professor in the Department of Chemical Energy Engineering at Sangmyung University, recently stated on the YouTube channel 'Doctor Friend' that "simply turning on a gas stove generates harmful substances such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide," adding, "Even the American Chemical Society has issued a statement recommending replacement with electric stoves."
According to Professor Kang, lung health examinations of domestic food service workers found that 30% of those working about eight hours a day in front of gas stoves showed signs of lung abnormalities, and younger workers were not exempt from these findings.
Professor Kang emphasized, "Using a gas stove for a day or two will not cause problems. However, continuous daily exposure inevitably damages the body." He also pointed out, "About 90% of female lung cancer patients are non-smokers, and the main cause cited in the medical community is kitchen culture."
"Harmful Substances Comparable to Automobile Exhaust"... U.S. Moves to Ban Sales
Methane gas, the main fuel for gas stoves, produces carbon monoxide during combustion when oxygen is insufficient. Professor Kang explained, "Past cases of death from coal gas poisoning were due to carbon monoxide poisoning. While open kitchens may not reach lethal concentrations, a significant amount still enters through the nose even with the hood on."
Additionally, at high temperatures of 800 to 1,300 degrees Celsius, oxygen and nitrogen in the air react to produce nitrogen dioxide. Professor Kang stated, "This means you are continuously inhaling substances no different from automobile exhaust."
For these reasons, some U.S. states are moving to ban the use of gas stoves. California has introduced a bill to prohibit new sales, and New York State is considering similar legislation. If these bills pass, gas stoves will effectively be unavailable for sale in both regions.
The American Chemical Society also officially acknowledged the hazards of gas stoves by issuing a formal statement in 2017 recommending replacement with electric stoves.
Ventilation Is Essential When Using Gas Stoves
Professor Kang asserted, "If you ask whether gas stoves or electric stoves are more dangerous, I can say definitively: gas stoves are much more dangerous. It's actually better to be exposed to electromagnetic waves."
He continued, "If it is difficult to immediately replace your gas stove with an electric one, you must open windows while cooking. Opening only one window is not enough; you need to open at least two or more to create airflow and dilute harmful substances."
He also added, "Although electric stoves have issues with electromagnetic waves, they are much safer than gas stoves. Stepping back even slightly while cooking significantly reduces electromagnetic exposure, and simply keeping the heat at a medium level greatly decreases electromagnetic waves."
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