• Stanford University study finds gas stoves emit benzene, a known carcinogen, increasing cancer risk, particularly for children (1.85 times higher than adults).
• The study identifies that benzene concentrations are highest in smaller dwellings with poor ventilation, especially in kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms.
• Mitigation strategies include switching to electric stoves, enhancing ventilation, and reducing outdoor benzene levels; New York has already banned gas stoves in new constructions.

A new study from Stanford University has revealed that gas stoves emit benzene, a harmful chemical and known carcinogen, posing a significant health risk, especially to children. The study assessed the carcinogenic health risks from benzene formed during gas combustion from stoves, as well as leukemia cases attributable to gas stove use. The study found that the risk is exacerbated in homes with medium to high gas stove usage and inadequate ventilation. The research also highlights the importance of ventilation and explores mitigation strategies, including a switch to electric stoves.

• What: A Stanford University study has found that gas stoves emit benzene, a carcinogen, which increases cancer risks, especially for children. The risks are higher in homes with medium to high gas stove usage and poor ventilation.
• Who: Researchers from Stanford University, 6.3 million U.S. residents exposed to the top five percent of highest benzene-emitting gas stoves, children, adults, policymakers, and homeowners.
• When: The study was recently conducted, with findings published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials (forthcoming July issue). New York's gas stove ban is set to take effect in 2026 and 2029.
• Where: The study measured benzene emissions in 87 homes across 14 counties in Colorado and California. The risks are particularly elevated in smaller dwellings and rooms where people spend the most time (kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms).

The Stanford University study provides compelling evidence of the health risks associated with benzene emissions from gas stoves. The finding that children face a significantly higher cancer risk underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. The study's emphasis on ventilation and potential mitigation strategies offers practical solutions for reducing exposure. The existing regulations, such as New York's gas stove ban, signal a growing awareness and policy response to these health concerns. Further research and policy interventions are needed to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations.

This study underscores the importance of effective ventilation and highlights the need for policies and strategies to mitigate benzene exposure from gas stoves, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children.

Natural gas and propane stoves emit benzene, a known carcinogen through combustion.

The study underscores the importance of addressing combustion-related indoor air pollutants to protect public health, particularly in households with limited ventilation.

The Stanford University study has brought renewed attention to the health risks associated with gas stove emissions, particularly the elevated cancer risk for children. While mitigation strategies such as improved ventilation and switching to electric stoves are available, further research and policy interventions are crucial. The long-term implications of benzene exposure from gas stoves warrant continued monitoring and proactive measures to protect public health. New York's ban on gas stoves marks a significant step, but broader adoption of similar policies may be necessary to address this widespread issue.