---
title: "Effects of low-level inhalation exposure to carbon dioxide…"
description: "Exposure to low levels of indoor carbon dioxide can negatively impact human physiology, cognitive function, and respiratory health."
url: "https://magellanlongevity.com/study/d30172928.md"
canonical: "https://magellanlongevity.com/study/d30172928.html"
html: "https://magellanlongevity.com/study/d30172928.html"
type: "study"
study_key: "d30172928"
journal: "Environ Int"
year: 2018
pmid: "30172928"
doi: "10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059"
citations: 1
updated: 2026-09-02
author: "Gabriel Radu, DO"
author_credentials: "Physiatrist (PM&R). NY medical license 275110. NPI 1376861765."
publisher: "Magellan Longevity"
content_format: "markdown"
---

# Effects of low-level inhalation exposure to carbon dioxide indoors on human health and psychomotor performance

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## Citation

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Journal | Environ Int |
| Year | 2018 |
| PMID | [30172928](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30172928/) |
| DOI | [10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059) |
| Study key | d30172928 |

## Takeaway

Exposure to low levels of indoor carbon dioxide can negatively impact human physiology, cognitive function, and respiratory health.

## The question

What are the effects of low-level indoor carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation exposure on human health and psychomotor performance?

## Hypothesis

The study does not explicitly state a hypothesis, but it aims to review existing literature to understand the effects of low-level CO2 exposure.

## Methods

The study conducted a review of scientific literature and documents concerning the effects of CO2 inhalation exposure on human health and psychomotor performance.

## Results

Linear physiological changes in circulatory, cardiovascular, and autonomic systems were observed with CO2 exposure from 500 to 5000 ppm. Short-term CO2 exposure starting at 1000 ppm affected cognitive performances like decision making and problem resolution. Epidemiological studies showed an association between CO2 exposure beginning at 700 ppm and building-related symptoms, and respiratory symptoms in children exposed to over 1000 ppm, though other indoor pollutants might be involved.

## Conclusion

Low-level indoor CO2 exposure can lead to physiological changes, affect cognitive performance, and be associated with building-related and respiratory symptoms. Further research is needed on long-term effects on the autonomic system.

## Limitations

The review notes that other indoor comorbid pollutants might be involved in the observed health effects, suggesting a potential confounder. It also highlights the need for further research on long-term effects.

## Verbatim from the abstract

> short-term CO2 exposure beginning at 1000 ppm affects decision making and problem resolution

## CO2 Concentration Thresholds for Observed Effects

| Measure | CO2 Concentration (ppm) |
| --- | --- |
| Physiological Changes | 500 |
| Building-Related Symptoms | 700 |
| Cognitive Performance Effects | 1000 |
| Children's Respiratory Symptoms | 1000 |

*This chart illustrates the minimum CO2 concentrations (in ppm) at which various health and performance effects were observed in the reviewed literature.*

## Where this study is used on Magellan

This paper is one of the citations behind the evidence grade on the pages below. Grades are assigned from the published research and are independent of affiliate commissions.

| Compound or device | Evidence grade | Graded pages |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Indoor CO2 Air-Quality Monitor | Moderate evidence | [Indoor CO2 Air-Quality Monitor](https://magellanlongevity.com/p/188.md) |

## Reference

1. **Effects of low-level inhalation exposure to carbon dioxide indoors on human health and psychomotor performance**
   Environ Int 2018 · [PMID 30172928](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30172928/) · [DOI 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.059)

   > short-term CO2 exposure beginning at 1000 ppm affects decision making and problem resolution

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## Related on Magellan Longevity

- [Indoor CO2 Air-Quality Monitor](https://magellanlongevity.com/p/188.md) — product graded on this and related evidence
- [Indoor CO2 concentrations and cognitive function: A critical review.](https://magellanlongevity.com/study/s188.md)
- [Associations between indoor air exposures and cognitive test scores among university…](https://magellanlongevity.com/study/d40204887.md)
- [Longevity research map](https://magellanlongevity.com/longevity-research-map.html)
- [Evidence-based longevity supplements](https://magellanlongevity.com/longevity-supplements.md)

## Scope and disclosures

Educational information, not medical advice. Nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to your physician before starting any supplement or device, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.

Editorial firewall: evidence grades are assigned from the published research and are independent of any affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, Magellan Longevity earns from qualifying purchases.

Reviewed for accuracy by a board-certified physician (DO).