A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology revealed that high levels of toxic flame retardants were found in dust samples of college dorms. 

Some flame retardant chemicals, which have largely been phased out but are still found in electronics and furniture, have been linked to cancer and hormone disruption. The main chemical of DecaBDE was found at nine times higher levels than recorded in any other environment, while another chemical was found at four times the recorded amount and was banned by the EPA in 2005.

The reasons for these such high levels are that dorm rooms are typically small and confined areas and that they contain furniture (new and old). 

To read the full article by Newsweek, click here.