There is no specific time. If you are exposed to benzene, xylene and formaldehyde for a long time, it will cause chromosome aberration and gene mutation, which may lead to leukemia. Because formaldehyde, benzene and xylene all have the benzene ring structure of aromatic hydrocarbons, these chemicals can migrate to DNA, causing mutations in chromosomes and genes, thus causing cancer.

Studies have also shown that formaldehyde exposure is positively correlated with the risk of leukemia, especially myeloid leukemia. Compared with ordinary people, the risk of leukemia and brain cancer among practitioners engaged in funeral industry and corpse preservation has also increased.

Extended data

Removal of formaldehyde

The really effective solution, besides avoiding excessive decoration, is to use formal and qualified materials, that is, ventilation. The research shows that the formaldehyde concentration in indoor air can be reduced by about 70%-90% if the window is ventilated for a short time 10 minute. When the weather is fine, you might as well open more windows. When the temperature is high in summer and autumn, the release of harmful substances such as formaldehyde will be more serious, so we should pay more attention to ventilation.

It is best to ask a professional institution for testing before you check in. China's Hygienic Standard for Formaldehyde in Indoor Air clearly stipulates that the maximum allowable concentration of formaldehyde in indoor air is 0.08mg/m3.

People's Daily Online-Authoritative Interpretation: Leukemia caused by formaldehyde is not imminent.