Does bug spray cause cancer?

Question

I work in an office in which store-bought bug spray is used VERY often. Some days it smells AWFUL. It's gotten to the point where I'm concerned about the health effects of breathing that stuff. I've heard rumors that long-term exposure to bug sprays can cause cancer... ? Do you know anything about this, or other health effects? (BTW, yes I've spoken with the boss about this and he always says, "we'll check into that." Nothing ever happens)
Thanks in advance

Answer 1

repeated exposure to any chemical is a risk for developing cancer. If your boss isn't doing anything about the chronic use of bug sprays, you need to notify OSHA, it is a definite infraction to continually expose employees to such substances.

Answer 2

Almost all commercially sold indoor insecticides, except for those sold for spiders, contain peremethrin. Peremethrin is a synthetic version of the natural pesticide found in Chrysanthmums - pyrethrum.

According to the Wikipedia entry under peremethrin:

"Currently, permethrin is not considered a carcinogen by any recognized authoritative body, but a few studies have lead the US EPA to classify the substance as a Category C carcinogen: Possible human carcinogen (the data show limited evidence of carcinogenicity in the absence of human data)[4]. Carcinogenic action in nasal mucosal cells for inhalation exposure is suspected due to observed genotoxicity in human tissue samples, and in rat livers the evidence of increased preneoplastic lesions lends concern over oral exposure [5][6]. However, these results are seen as preliminary and marginal, at best.

I would be very concerned. Find out specifically what retail brand of product is in use and contact whatever local agency you have that regulates these products. They should have more specific detail.

Answer 3

Only if you are continuously exposed to it for a very long time[chronic exposure]. Bug sprays are over 99% plain water with just enough pesticide to kill a bug 1/10000 your size. You're better off worrying about getting hit by a bus while crossing the street.