Diffuse Lung Disease and Lung Transplant Network
Occupational and Environmental Health Section
CHEST
Dr. Matthew Glick
CHEST
Dr. Tyler Church
CHEST
Dr. Priya Balakrishnan
The kitchen is considered the heart of the home, but recent discoveries have raised concerns about whether this beloved space might also pose hidden health risks. Gas stoves, present in 38% of U.S. homes, generate multiple pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a known respiratory irritant.1 Studies have identified a correlation between NO₂ levels and respiratory conditions, with children being particularly vulnerable.2 The association between domestic NO₂ exposure from gas stoves and conditions such as asthma has led to increased scrutiny of indoor air quality.
Studies have demonstrated that households using gas stoves have higher indoor NO₂ levels, with levels that far exceed the EPA national ambient air quality standards.3 While the predominance of studies have looked at a correlation with pediatric pulmonary processes, there is also evidence of increased lung function loss in patients who smoke and have COPD.4
Switching from gas to electric stoves is one proposed solution to mitigate exposure to NO₂. Evidence suggests that electric stoves significantly reduce indoor NO₂ levels, lowering the risk of respiratory illnesses.
Another proposed solution has been to utilize hoods; however, capture efficiency is variable and some recycle the air and return it indoors.5 While existing data indicates a connection between gas stove use and respiratory health risks, conclusive evidence examining the magnitude and mechanisms linking these factors to chronic lung diseases is still needed. Comprehensive studies will help determine whether the kitchen staple—a gas stove—is indeed a friend or a foe to our respiratory health.
References
1. U.S. Energy Information Administration, Appliances in U.S. homes, by household income, 2020. https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential/data/2020/hc/pdf/HC%203.5.pdf. Accessed September 10, 2024.
2. Belanger K, Holford TR, Gent JF, Hill ME, Kezik JM, Leaderer BP. Household levels of nitrogen dioxide and pediatric asthma severity. Epidemiology. 2013;24(2):320-330.
3. Singer BC, Pass RZ, Delp WW, Lorenzetti DM, Maddalena RL. Pollutant concentrations and emission rates from natural gas cooking burners without and with range hood exhaust in nine California homes. Building and Environment. 2017;122:215-229.
4. Hansel NN, Woo H, Koehler K, et al. Indoor pollution and lung function decline in current and former smokers: SPIROMICS AIR. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2023;208(10):1042-1051.
5. Nassikas NJ, McCormack MC, Ewart G, et al. Indoor air sources of outdoor air pollution: health consequences, policy, and recommendations: an Official American Thoracic Society Workshop report. Ann Am Thorac Soc. 2024;21(3), 365-376.