"EPA Determines Formaldehyde Causes Cancer, In Step Toward Regulation"

"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that breathing in formaldehyde, a chemical that’s used in building materials and hair straighteners, can cause cancer.

In a toxicological review issued this week, the EPA said the substance causes sinus and nasal cancer as well as myeloid leukemia.

While the finding itself does not impose new restrictions on the substance’s use, the determination is expected to inform future regulations.

The agency plans to take the next step in the regulatory process, which is called a final risk evaluation, by the end of the year, a spokesperson said. This still does not actually regulate the substance, but it would represent another step in that direction."

Rachel Frazin reports for The Hill August 21, 2024.