Being exposed to certain types of surface materials at work appears to increase adults' risk of developing asthma, a new study shows. "These findings underline the need to consider the health aspects of materials used in floor, wall, and other indoor surfaces," Dr Jouni J. K. Jaakkola of the University of Helsinki in Finland conclude.
A number of materials used in furnishing indoor environments may emit pollutants with the capacity to irritate the airways, the researchers note. While studies have linked certain materials, pollutants and even renovations to asthma in children, they add, there have been no reports on how such exposure might affect adults' asthma risk.