Are there health problems that can be caused by sulfur dioxide?
Although exposure to SO2 has not been shown to cause cancer in humans, there are serious health problems related to both long and short term exposures. Short term exposure to high enough levels of SO2 can be life threatening. Generally, exposures to SO2 cause a burning sensation in the nose and throat. Also, SO2 exposure can cause difficulty breathing, including changes in the bodys ability to take a breath or breathe deeply, or take in as much air per breath. Long term exposure to sulfur dioxide can cause changes in lung function and aggravate existing heart disease. Asthmatics may be sensitive to changes in respiratory effects due to SO2 exposure at even low concentrations. How can I reduce my exposure to sulfur dioxide? To reduce the possibility of exposure to sulfur dioxide caused by a source in your home, you can: • Use gas appliances with electronic (pilotless) ignition. This will eliminate the continuous low-level pollutants from pilot lights. • Use exhaust fans over gas stoves
