In many Indian households, incense sticks glowing in prayer corners and the use of air fresheners to mask the smell of oil and spices are daily rituals. While these may be part of our cultural and domestic identity, recent medical evidence suggests they may be silently damaging our lungs—particularly those of non-smokers.
Indoor Air Pollution: A Growing Health Threat
Emerging research from around the world highlights a serious concern—indoor air pollution caused by incense, cooking fumes, and synthetic air fresheners can significantly increase the risk of lung damage and even cancer. Alarmingly, non-smokers appear to be especially vulnerable to these hidden hazards.
Alarming Findings from Global Studies
A January 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health examined lung fluid samples from lung cancer patients and healthy individuals. The results were striking. Regular exposure to cooking fumes and incense burning led to a higher risk of lung adenocarcinoma. Among non-smoking women, cooking increased the risk by over five times, while incense burning raised it more than sixfold.
As per the press release, researchers identified toxic chemicals like naphthalene, ethylbenzene, and o-xylene in both cooking and incense fumes. These substances accumulate in the lungs and cause cellular damage over time.
Expert Warnings from Indian Doctors
Dr. Arun Kumar Giri, Director of Surgical Oncology at Aakash Healthcare, emphasized the growing evidence:
“We are seeing lung inflammation and early signs of damage even in non-smokers. Many of these patients are regularly exposed to incense smoke, cooking fumes without exhaust systems, and scented sprays. These exposures are not harmless.”
Incense vs. Cigarettes: A Shocking Comparison
A 2021 review published in Frontiers in Public Health revealed that incense sticks generate more particulate matter per gram than cigarettes. Moreover, incense smoke contains toxic compounds that directly affect both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Indian Cooking Methods Add to the Risk
Dr. Ruchi Singh is the Head of Department and Senior Consultant of Radiation Oncology at Asian Hospital, Faridabad. She highlighted the dangers associated with traditional cooking practices:
“Deep-frying, tadka, and cooking with high-heat oils release harmful chemicals. In the absence of proper ventilation, these pollutants settle in the lungs and contribute to chronic respiratory conditions.”