Mulch Cancer Awareness

Health Risks of Wood Dust

Exposure to wood dust has been linked to respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Long-term exposure to wood dust has been linked to severe respiratory conditions, chronic inflammation, and even deadly forms of cancer. Yet, despite the scientific evidence, thousands of workers and residents living near these operations are unknowingly breathing in hazardous airborne particles every day.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), wood dust falls into Group 1: Carcinogenic to Humans—the same category as asbestos and tobacco smoke.

Decades of epidemiological studies have confirmed that prolonged exposure increases the risk of nasal, sinus, and lung cancers.

For individuals living near a mulch facility, the primary route of exposure is through inhalation. The finer the particles, the deeper they can penetrate into the respiratory tract. Larger wood dust particles might be trapped in the nasal passages, but the smaller fractions—often in the submicron range—can reach the bronchioles and alveoli. Here, they may induce local inflammation, oxidative stress, and even cellular damage. The wood dust emitted from these facilities carries a mix of biological and chemical agents that may compromise respiratory health and elevate the risk of serious conditions such as cancer.

Every breath we take should be safe, yet millions unknowingly inhale hazardous wood dust particles daily. By raising awareness, advocating for safer practices, and demanding better environmental protections, we can reduce the devastating impact of long-term exposure.