Report Warns of Asthma-Causing Chemicals in Building Products

The report is largely based on “logical arguments,” in the words of a coauthor, and does not introduce new empirical evidence attributing chemicals in building materials to the rising rates of asthma—rates that are not completely understood by scientists but are generally linked with respiratory infections and exposure to airborne irritants.

The HBN report, “Full Disclosure Required: A Strategy to Prevent Asthma Through Building Product Selection,” finds that materials like flooring, carpet, insulation, and paints commonly contain asthmagens, chemicals that can cause asthma to develop. The report outlines substance profiles for 50 asthmagens and identifies 28 as top priorities based on whether occupants have a reasonable chance of being exposed during product installation or use.