formaldehyde

A chemical commonly used to kill germs and to preserve laboratory specimens and tissues. It is also used to make building materials (such as wood), glue, fabric, paint, fertilizers, pesticides, and other substances. Formaldehyde is also found in tobacco smoke and in the vapor made from burning fuel, such as the exhaust from cars or household stoves and heaters. It has a strong odor and catches fire easily. Formaldehyde is known to cause cancer. Being exposed to formaldehyde increases the risk of developing myeloid leukemia and cancers of the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and nasopharynx.