MIAMI, Florida (CBSMiami) -- Every time you turn on the lights, you may be putting yourself at risk, according to a disturbing new study.
Energy efficient bulbs are eco-friendly and can save you big bucks, but experts say that some could also have a dark side.
"When there is something in your house, you don't perceive any
danger, you wouldn't get that close to an x-ray in a doctor's office,"
explained Miriam Rafailovich, Professor of Materials Science at Stony
Brook University in New York.
Money saving compact fluorescent light bulbs emit high levels of
ultra violet radiation, according to a new study. Research at Long
Island's Stony Brook found that the bulbs emit rays so strong that they
can actually burn skin and skin cells.
"The results were that you could actually initiate cell death," said Marcia Simon, a Professor of Dermatology.
Exposure to the bulbs could lead to premature aging and skin cancer, according to doctors.
"It can also cause skin cancer in the deadliest form, and that's melanoma," said Dr. Rebecca Tung.
In every bulb that researchers tested, they found that the protective
coating around the light creating 'phosphor' was cracked, allowing
dangerous ultraviolet rays to escape.
Homeowners expressed concern over the effect that the bulbs could have on children.
"That's very unfortunate, because the kids are getting exposed to so many different things at a younger age," said Vicky Cobb.
The compact fluorescent industry claims that the bulbs are safe, but admitted that they emit ultraviolet rays. The industry released a statement that said "the levels of UV radiation emitted are acceptably low," and that they are safe under normal use.
Stony Brook researchers advised that customers exercise caution and
stay two feet away from the bulbs at all times, while storing them in an
overhead fixture or lamp.