Formaldehyde, a colorless, pungent-smelling gas, can cause watery
eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and
throat,
nausea, and difficulty in
breathing in some humans exposed at elevated levels (above 0.1 parts per million). High concentrations may trigger attacks in people with
asthma. There is evidence that some people can develop a sensitivity to formaldehyde. The substance has also been shown to cause
cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans.
In 2007 the House Oversight Committee launched a review into the Federal Emergency Management Authority's use of formaldehyde in FEMA trailers provided to Katrina evacuees.
Trailers allegedly contained toxic levels of formaldehyde, and FEMA general counsel apparently told subordinates to soft-pedal illness claims.
See your doctor if you have experienced serious health problems because of formaldehyde exposure. In addition, it may be important to
contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be
time limits within which you must commence suit.
See Also
- Injury from Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Asthma: Overview
- Breathing: Overview
- Cancer
- Ear, Nose, & Throat Disorders
- Eye Disorders
- Nausea: Overview