The Danger of Solvents

Solvents are used in the daily activities of many industrial jobs or, in the case of some cleaners, in household chores. Their impact on the human body is often poorly understood since exposure can happen over years leading to impacts far in the future. As we continue to study disease and seek to understand how to prevent them from occurring in the first place, we often discover the hidden dangers of common products. We have continued to gather information regarding the adverse effects of common chemicals health.

The Study

Recently, a study was performed in Korea that sought to look into underlying causes of Parkinson’s Disease. The study included over 33,000 individuals (9400 with Parkinson’s and 24000 without Parkinson’s). The participants filled out a questionnaire that among other things looked at exposure to 13 different solvents. After compiling the results they discovered a correlation between exposure to 7 different solvents and higher odds of developing Parkinsons. In particular, the three solvents with the highest associations were kerosene, trichloroethylene (TCE), and carbon tetrachloride. The four other solvents associated with Parkinson’s are mineral spirits, methyl ethyl ketone, jet fuel, and toluene.

In general, some of those solvents are fairly common. Unfortunately, others may not be as easily recognizable. Lets break them down to see where they might be used. First, kerosene is used as a fuel for aircraft, in lighting (kerosene lamps), and for fuel to cook.  Second, TCE is used as a degreaser and to make refrigerants. Carbon tetrachloride was one more widely used, but has been phased out of many applications due to its known carcinogenic properties. It is currently only used commercially to make refrigerants.

Next up, mineral spirits are commonly used to clean after painting or with degreasing. Fifth on the list, Methyl Ethyl Ketone has many uses including degreasing, making paints and varnishes, making glues and adhesives, and used to make rubber, paraffin wax, and printing inks. Jet fuel is self-explanatory. Finally, Toulene is a building block for many other chemicals, an additive to fuels, and an industrial solvent. Obviously, not all of these chemicals are ones that the average American comes into contact with. However, it is important to understand some of the risks and locations these chemicals may be found so you can protect yourself from exposure.

The Takeaway

Some of these chemicals may be ones that you come into contact with as a part of your job or daily household routine. If so, you should consider switching to a less toxic alternative or wearing the proper protective equipment (gloves and mask). As an example, take a look at this previous post to try and reduce your toxic burden. However, what might be more concerning is the possibility that there are other chemicals that might have a similar effect. Thirteen solvents were evaluated for association with Parkinson’s. Are there other diseases they might they be connected to? What about all of the other chemicals that were not studied? What associations with health do they have?

In conclusion, this study is shows that we, as a society, need to be careful with what chemicals we come into contact with and how we use them. Otherwise we may start to experience more adverse effects of common chemicals on our health.