U.S. researchers have found that the more exposure people have to formaldehyde, the higher their risk of getting Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a condition involving the gradual death of nerve cells which control muscle movement.

According to Reuter’s Julie Steenhuysen, study participants who reported regular exposure to formaldehyde were 34% more likely to develop the disease. This finding needs to be confirmed in further studies.

Formaldehyde is a chemical commonly found in cosmetics, personal care products, adhesives, particle board products, disinfectants and furniture polish. It is classed as a probable human carcinogen.

Reference

Steenhuysen, J.  2008   Formaldehyde exposure linked with ALS in U.S. study   Reuters report. Available online at : http://www.reuters.com (Viewed on 18.4.08)