From Mosquito Coils to Cancer: The Dangers of Chemical-Based Insecticides
Mosquito coils are a popular way to repel and kill mosquitoes, but they come with a cost to human health. The smoke from these coils is composed of chemical ingredients that contain fine dust and toxic substances. Prolonged use of mosquito coils can damage cells and increase the risk of lung cancer.
In the past, mosquito coils were made from natural materials such as wood powder, coconut shell powder, and incense powder. However, nowadays many incense products are made from chemical ingredients to enhance their mosquito-killing efficiency. These chemicals, such as pyrethroid, can be harmful to human health, causing damage to lung cells and leading to genetic changes.
When burned, incense made from chemical ingredients emits toxic substances such as CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, and formaldehyde. Additionally, the smoke contains fine dust particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and circulatory system, causing respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues. Long-term exposure to these toxic substances can lead to cell damage and the formation of cancer cells.
Research has shown that burning a mosquito coil releases harmful air pollutants equivalent to burning a significant number of cigarettes. Moreover, synthetic chemicals in mosquito coils can also pose health risks to terrestrial and aquatic animals. Studies have indicated that regular exposure to mosquito incense made from chemical ingredients can increase the risk of lung cancer in humans.
To protect both human health and the environment without using harmful chemicals in mosquito repellent products, doctors recommend taking measures such as eliminating standing water around homes or businesses; keeping living areas clean and dry; wearing light-colored clothing; using natural essential oils; installing mosquito nets around beds; avoiding outdoor activities at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active; using fans or air conditioners indoors during hot weather; applying insecticide sprays only when necessary; avoiding spraying near bodies of water or wildlife habitats; disposing properly of used insecticide containers or residue; using organic pest control methods whenever possible; covering windows with screens or netting at night when sleeping outdoors or camping; using citronella candles instead of insecticide candles for outdoor events; avoiding using candles indoors during high humidity periods when bugs are more active.
It is important for individuals who want to repel mosquitoes without exposing themselves to harmful chemicals in their homes or workplaces take proactive measures towards their own health while also protecting the environment from unnecessary harm caused by these products.
