May 23, 2005—A majority (58%) of US adults believe that chemicals and pollutants are more of a threat to people like them now than they were 10 years ago, according to a Wall Street Journal poll.
The public appears to be more worried about certain outdoor air pollutants and chemicals than those indoors but about one in five (21%) adults report that they or someone in their household has experienced a chronic health problem (e.g., allergies, lung condition, chronic fatigue, etc.) attributed to indoor air pollutants or chemicals, the poll found. Many adults are taking proactive steps to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and pollutants.
The Harris Interactive online survey of 2,130 US adults was conducted between April 15 and 19, 2005 for The Wall Street Journal Online’s Health Industry Edition.
On a more positive note, a majority (61%) of adults report having taken one or more steps to reduce their exposure to chemicals or pollutants. Steps taken include: purchasing natural or biodegradable cleaning products (34%); purchasing organic produce or other foods (24%); and using chemical-free paints, furnishings or other construction materials in their home (17%).
For a downloadable PDF of the poll, visit the Web site.
