High Levels Of Cancer-Causing Formaldehyde Found In Parts Of Houston

"HOUSTON - High levels of a cancer-causing chemical have been detected in air monitors in Houston neighborhoods near the busiest U.S. petrochemical port, according to a report issued on Thursday by Houston health officials and environmental groups.

The report by the Houston Health Department and One Breath Partnership said concentrations of formaldehyde were found at levels 13 times the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s minimum level for health threats.

It recommended regulations for plants and control of chemicals contributing to formaldehyde formation be tightened. Formaldehyde levels appear to be increasing in Houston as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's air monitoring sampling frequency is decreasing, the report said."

Erwin Seba reports for the Associated Press July 1, 2021.

Source: Reuters, 07/02/2021