Ann Arbor, Michigan – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan suggests that storing chemicals in your garage, especially those connected to your home, may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a muscle-wasting condition. The study found a stronger link between the storage of chemicals like gasoline, weed killer, pesticides, paint, and woodworking supplies in an attached garage and the development of ALS. This potential risk was higher with an increase in the number of chemicals stored in the garage.
ALS, also known as motor neuron disease in the UK, affects around 5,000 people in the country and 31,000 Americans according to estimates from the CDC. The condition is caused by the gradual dysfunction of cells in the brain and nerves called motor neurones, leading to a loss of muscle control over time. While about 5-10% of ALS cases are inherited, the majority have no genetic link.
The study, published in the journal Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration, involved over 600 American participants, including 367 with ALS and 255 without. Participants were surveyed about their exposure to chemicals at home, particularly focusing on the storage of chemicals in their attached or detached garages. Interestingly, the study found a significant association between the storage of chemicals in an attached garage and the risk of ALS when compared to a detached garage.
According to Dr. Stephen Goutman, the lead study author and associate director of the ALS Center of Excellence at the University of Michigan, exposures to chemicals in the home setting play a vital role in the development of ALS. The top three risk factors identified in the study included gasoline or kerosene, gasoline-powered equipment, and lawn care products stored in attached garages. These items were associated with a 14%, 16%, and 15% increased risk of ALS, respectively.
Researcher Stuart Batterman, a professor of environmental health science at the University of Michigan, highlighted the impact of the flow of air and airborne pollutants from attached garages to living spaces, suggesting that volatile chemicals in attached garages have a stronger effect. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential environmental factors contributing to the development of ALS.
Overall, the study sheds light on the importance of minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals in residential settings to reduce the risk of developing ALS. By understanding the potential impact of chemical storage in garages, individuals can take proactive measures to create safer living environments for themselves and their families.