A new Stanford-led study reveals that using gas and propane stoves exposes up to 22 million Americans to indoor nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels comparable to total outdoor pollution exposure.
NO2 is linked to heart and lung disease, asthma, diabetes, preterm birth, and lung cancer. The study combined indoor measurements with outdoor air data for 133 million homes, finding that for rural residents and those in smaller homes, stove emissions alone push long-term NO2 above safety thresholds.
In dense urban areas, outdoor traffic pollution combines with indoor emissions to worsen health risks. Additional research by the same team found that gas stoves also emit benzene, a carcinogen linked to leukemia.
The good news: Replacing gas with electric stoves cuts NO2 exposure by over a quarter, and by up to half for frequent users. If replacement isn't possible, using range hoods, opening windows, or using electric appliances like kettles and induction cooktops can help. Air purifiers also reduce risk.
Stanford notes that state and federal rebates and tax credits can offset replacement costs. The U.S. government has also flagged the health hazards of gas stoves.