Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Weekly Subject Experts’ Presentation was held at Board Room Abuja. The only presentation for the day was made by the Subject Experts on, United States of America.
The presentation was made by Maj Gen BA Tsoho subject expert on United States of America, his presentation Centred on how, U.S. Research Group Ties Household Chemicals To Over 368,000 Heart Disease Deaths. The Cable News Network (CNN) reported on 29 April 2025 that a ground-breaking study by the U.S.-based Environmental Working Group (EWG) has linked quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), a common household chemical, to more than 368,000 heart disease-related deaths in the United States. According to the study, quats, which are widely used in disinfectants, sanitizers, and personal care products, may significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly among long-term users or individuals with high exposure levels. Researchers analyzed public health data spanning nearly a decade and found a strong association between elevated quat exposure and heart-related fatalities. David Andrews, Ph.D., a senior scientist at EWG and co-author of the study, stated that “the evidence points to a troubling link between this widely used class of chemicals and heart disease mortality.” He emphasized the urgent need for regulatory agencies to re-evaluate the safety of quats in consumer and commercial products. The study identified that people working in healthcare, janitorial services, and industrial cleaning are among those most at risk, though home users are also affected due to the rising trend of using potent disinfectants, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health experts are now calling for increased transparency in product labeling and stricter limits on the use of quats. In response, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has acknowledged the findings and stated that it is reviewing its current guidelines on the chemical’s safety profile.
In his analysis and lessons for Nigeria Maj Gen BA Tsoho noted that, In Nigeria, the use of such chemicals is widespread, often without adequate regulation or public awareness of their potential health risks. For instance, phthalates, commonly used as plasticizers in various household items, have been linked to significant health concerns. A study by NYU Langone Health estimated that exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) contributed to over 356,000 global deaths from heart disease in 2018, with regions like Africa bearing a substantial portion of this burden (The Sun, 2025).
In Nigeria, several factors exacerbate the risks associated with household chemical exposure. The prevalent use of biomass fuels for cooking, especially in rural areas, leads to significant indoor air pollution. Furthermore, the use of hazardous pesticides in agriculture poses another significant risk. Over 50% of registered pesticides in Nigeria are classified as highly hazardous, with many banned in other countries due to their health implications (Vanguard News, 2024). These chemicals can contaminate food and water sources, leading to chronic exposure among the population. Similarly, exposure to heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, often found in household items and environmental pollutants, has also been identified and associated with increased cardiovascular risks. A study by PubMed (2023), focusing on automobile mechanics in Southwest Nigeria, revealed that these individuals had higher levels of serum cadmium and lead, correlating with elevated cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors (PubMed, 2023).
Additionally, contaminated water sources in Nigeria have also been found to contain high levels of heavy metals, further contributing to the population’s exposure to cardiovascular issues (Punch, 2023). A significant challenge in addressing the health risks posed by household chemicals in Nigeria is the widespread lack of awareness. Many Nigerians are unaware of the potential dangers associated with everyday chemical exposures.
He recommended that, NAFDAC should collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Environment to conduct a nationwide audit of chemical disinfectants in use to enhance better policy decisions and interventions.
