Effects of household cleaning products on the lungs: an update.

Abstract

Introduction: Household disinfectants and cleaning products (HDCPs), which involve a complex mixture of chemical ingredients, are commonly used in homes. HDCPs significantly contribute to chemical exposure in the indoor environment by releasing particles and volatile organic compounds while being used, potentially harming the respiratory health of those exposed.

Areas covered: We provide an overview of scientific literature, especially from the last five years, regarding the (i) effects of using of HDCPs on adults' respiratory health; (ii) associations between prenatal or childhood exposure to HDCPs and children respiratory health. Finally, we discuss on standard and innovative methods of HDCP exposure assessment.

Expert opinion: Recent literature provides further evidence on the harmful role of HDCPs on respiratory health in both adults and children. Exposure to HDCPs is a modifiable asthma risk factor that requires more consideration, in order to reduce asthma-related morbidity, and to improve and maintain an optimal control of the disease. Further research is essential to deepen the current knowledge, particularly by using innovative methods of exposure assessment to HDCPs, which could enhance the exposure characterization in both adults and children, and contribute to identify HDCP's chemical compounds leading to a risk for respiratory health.