Formaldehyde Classified as Known Human Carcinogen

The 2011 Report on Carcinogens (12^th Edition), released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Program, has changed the listing of formaldehyde to known to be a human carcinogen. Epidemiological studies conducted since the compound was first listed in the Annual Report on Carcinogens in 1981 as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen, have demonstrated a causal relationship between formaldehyde exposure and cancer in humans. Studies found an increased risk of nasopharyngeal cancer, sinonasal cancer and myeloid leukemia among individuals with higher dose and longer term exposures to formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is commonly found in plywood, particle board, resins, glues, and foam. The full report can be found on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ website www.hhs.gov.