Study Reveals Top U.S. Cities with Highest Formaldehyde Cancer Risk

A ProPublica analysis reveals that formaldehyde, a chemical linked to cancer and other health issues like asthma and reproductive problems, poses a significant risk in St. Louis, Missouri. The city has 21 of the 23 most at-risk ZIP codes for formaldehyde-related cancer in the state. Despite its widespread use in industries such as furniture making and food sterilization, the American Chemistry Council argues that existing regulations are sufficient to mitigate health risks. However, the report suggests that public health risks from formaldehyde are more severe than commonly understood.