Automobiles and Their Threatening Dangers:
There are several dangers lurking when it comes to driving vehicles, but some of them are not-so-well-known and have little to do with drinking while driving, falling asleep behind the wheel and other general automobile mishaps. These dangers rather result from the exposure to toxic substances found inside automobiles, potentially leading to mild or even potentially serious health disorders. Awareness of these toxic substances is key to preventing problems.
• New Car Smell
Many car enthusiasts enjoy new car smells associating them with novelty and prestige. However, there is nothing much to brag about when it comes to this exhilarating smell. The ''new car smell'' indeed derives from the use of synthetic materials, which when fresh from the factory, release toxic substances such as phthalates, chlorine and benzene. Avoiding new cars can be helpful, since the smell fades away year after year, considerably diminishing the chances for exposure.
• Asbestos Fibers
Older cars, however, are not free from dangers as well. Not many drivers are aware of the fact that asbestos may be lurking in their car. Most commonly found in older cars, the items to watch for are: brake pads,clutch assemblies and gaskets. Mechanics, car technicians, and to some extent, hobbyists who enjoy working on cars, are those at main risk. Once inhaled, dangerous asbestos fibers may lead to serious lung disease, and mesothelioma, a very aggressive form of lung cancer.
• Bromine
Bromine is a toxic substance commonly found in cars, which derives from products such as car seats, seat belts and dashboards made of plastic, or vinyl. Brominated flame-retardants are added to plastic and vinyl so to make them fire resistant. However, over time, these chemical substances break down. Exposure to bromine may cause thyroid problems, learning impairment, memory impairment and decreased fertility along with behavioral problems.
As seen, pollution is not something that exclusively flows out from a car exhaust, but it can also be inside the car itself. Allergies, respiratory problems, thyroid problems, learning impairment, along with life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer or mesothelioma are just a few examples of health problems derived from the exposures to toxic substances found inside the cabin of a car. Knowledge is ultimate power, and it cannot be emphasized enough the importance of making an informed decision prior to purchasing a car.
• New Car Smell
Many car enthusiasts enjoy new car smells associating them with novelty and prestige. However, there is nothing much to brag about when it comes to this exhilarating smell. The ''new car smell'' indeed derives from the use of synthetic materials, which when fresh from the factory, release toxic substances such as phthalates, chlorine and benzene. Avoiding new cars can be helpful, since the smell fades away year after year, considerably diminishing the chances for exposure.
• Asbestos Fibers
Older cars, however, are not free from dangers as well. Not many drivers are aware of the fact that asbestos may be lurking in their car. Most commonly found in older cars, the items to watch for are: brake pads,clutch assemblies and gaskets. Mechanics, car technicians, and to some extent, hobbyists who enjoy working on cars, are those at main risk. Once inhaled, dangerous asbestos fibers may lead to serious lung disease, and mesothelioma, a very aggressive form of lung cancer.
• Bromine
Bromine is a toxic substance commonly found in cars, which derives from products such as car seats, seat belts and dashboards made of plastic, or vinyl. Brominated flame-retardants are added to plastic and vinyl so to make them fire resistant. However, over time, these chemical substances break down. Exposure to bromine may cause thyroid problems, learning impairment, memory impairment and decreased fertility along with behavioral problems.
As seen, pollution is not something that exclusively flows out from a car exhaust, but it can also be inside the car itself. Allergies, respiratory problems, thyroid problems, learning impairment, along with life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer or mesothelioma are just a few examples of health problems derived from the exposures to toxic substances found inside the cabin of a car. Knowledge is ultimate power, and it cannot be emphasized enough the importance of making an informed decision prior to purchasing a car.
