Now, accidents are not the only risk when you are travelling in a car, as scientists have discovered a silent threat that is found in almost every vehicle.
As per Science Alert, scientists in new research analysed 101 cars and found that 99% of the cars contain tris (1-chloro-isopropyl) phosphate or TCIPP, which is a flame retardant chemical often used in furniture and textiles.
The other two materials found in the vehicles were tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate, TDCIPP and tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate or TCEP.
Studies have shown that these materials can cause cancer and can also damage neurological and reproductive systems.
Researchers revealed that these potentially dangerous materials have been found in 99% of vehicle cabins manufactured in the US since 2015.
Rebecca Hoehn, researcher and environmental scientist from Duke University, said, “Our research found that interior materials release harmful chemicals into the cabin air of our cars. Considering the average driver spends about an hour in the car every day, this is a significant public health issue.”
Hoehn further noted, “It's particularly concerning for drivers with longer commutes as well as child passengers, who breathe more air pound for pound than adults.”
Moreover, Lydia Jahl, an environmental chemist at the Green Science Policy Institute in the US, emphasised, “What's really needed is reducing the number of flame retardants being added to cars in the first place.”
Jahl added, “Commuting to work shouldn't come with a cancer risk, and children shouldn't breathe in chemicals that can harm their brains on their way to school.”
