M4.2 Blog Assignment: National Library ToxNet

According to the National Library’s ToxNet resource, formaldehyde and bleach are irritants. Exposures to both of these chemicals have concerning effects to humans.

Formaldehyde is naturally produce in small amount in humans. It is also commonly used in building materials (insulation, glues, particle and fiber board), coatings in papers and fabrics, preservatives in mortuaries, and in disinfectants. Indoors may contain formaldehyde from wood products. Hospital workers and households are highly exposed to formaldehyde from disinfectants and laboratory products by inhalation and skin contact. Exposure to this chemical causes eye, upper respiratory tract irritation, and respiratory inflammatory responses including wheezing. It is also carcinogenic in human causing cancer of the nasopharynx and leukemia. Women who are exposed to formaldehyde in the garment industry have higher incidence of reproductive problems such as sterility and menstrual problem.

Bleach or sodium hypochlorite is an acid that are commonly mixed with chlorine. Using this product, the general population may be exposed to chlorine gas via oral, inhalation, dermal, and eye contact. The gas can lead to ocular irritation and burns. Dermal contact with this chemical can cause erythema, blister, and burn. Inhalation of the gas can cause irritation of the throat, followed by coughing and wheezing, dyspnea, and chest pain. Exposure to larger amount of this chemical may cause pneumonitis, asthma, hyperchloremic acidosis, anoxia (lack of oxygen), and cardiac arrest. In human experiments, drinking water containing higher than normal chlorine induced chromatid and chromosome breaks, translocation, and gaps. These can cause abnormal changes in the human genes.