Question

Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been associated with which type of cancer?

• A. Lung cancer
• B. Skin cancer
• C. Nasopharyngeal cancer
• D. Leukemia

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Nasopharyngeal cancer

• Formaldehyde is a colourless gas with a pungent smell. It is one of the most common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found indoors.

• Formaldehyde is emitted from building materials (e.g. particleboard, plywood, glue, paints) as well as household and personal care products (e.g. drapes, carpets, cleaning products, hair sprays).

• Additional indoor sources may be combustion processes such as smoking, heating, cooking, or candle or incense burning.

• Short-term exposure to formaldehyde can lead to eye, nose and throat irritation as well as increased allergic sensitization.

• Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been associated with nasopharyngeal cancer