Does the smell of new cars really increase the risk of cancer?

The smell of new cars is very appealing to some, but its health effects have been the subject of several studies in recent years. The most recent, just published via ScienceDirect, suggests once again that it may increase the risk of developing cancer

First, let's remember that the smell in question is not an added fragrance, but rather a mixture of about 20 substances that are released from the interior of the vehicle in the form of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are found in plastics, leather, vinyl, carpets, paint, adhesives, solvents and cleaners.

Some of the most harmful, such as acetaldehyde, benzene, formaldehyde, hexanaldehyde, styrene, toluene and acetone, have been identified as carcinogens. And it is the quantity that can be problematic.

A team from the Beijing Institute of Technology conducted a field (not laboratory) investigation by leaving a brand-new, freshly manufactured car in an outdoor parking lot for 12 consecutive days. At the end of the experiment, it found a formaldehyde concentration 34.9% above Chinese health standards. In the case of acetaldehyde, the concentration exceeded 61%.

An increase in vehicle temperature accelerates the release of VOCs, the study also found, concluding that spending 30 minutes a day in a new car exposes its occupants enough to increase the risk of cancer. Otherwise, they may experience discomfort, drowsiness, headaches, confusion or eye and nose irritation.

This is why CAA-Quebec recommends driving with the windows down as often as possible in the early days since harmful emissions can be present for six months or more. Letting fresh air into the vehicle is essential.

Another good idea, of course, is to opt for a used vehicle. The smell of new will never be a problem!