Burning candles may seem like the perfect way to set a relaxing ambiance in your home, but recent research highlights a less soothing side to this age-old practice. Not only can lighting a candle drastically increase a room’s particulate matter concentration, but it may also have surprising and concerning effects on cognitive performance.
A study from the University of Birmingham’s School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences found that candle burning can increase a room’s particulate matter (PM) concentration fivefold. This uptick in indoor air pollution is more than just a number; it has tangible effects on human health. The inhaled soot and other PM produced from candles can lead to cardiopulmonary problems, a significant issue given the prevalence of candles in homes for various daily activities.
The implications of these findings extend beyond physical health concerns. The same study, employing a series of cognitive tests, showed a “statistically robust decline in cognitive function” after subjects were exposed to elevated PM concentrations from both candle burning and outdoor commuting scenarios compared to ambient indoor conditions. The most telling result was seen in the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) tests, which displayed a notable decrease in cognitive performance post-exposure, suggesting that the air we breathe is linked not only to our physical well-being but also to our mental agility and function.
The decline in cognitive function can have a multitude of knock-on effects, from impacting decision-making abilities to potentially aggravating mental health issues. The study’s observation of cognitive decline related to PM exposure aligns with the recent emphasis on indoor air quality as a critical factor in both physical and mental health.
It’s crucial to note that the effects of PM exposure on cognitive function are not limited to candles. Urban commuting, specifically near busy roads, was also shown to cause short-term cognitive decline. Therefore, the concern spans from the comfort of our living rooms to the daily commute.
Relevant articles:
– Effects of short-term exposure to particulate matter air pollution on cognitive performance,2019 Jun 3