Advancing Research on Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
Evidence-based data, collaboration opportunities, and research resources to support the growing field of MCS science.
Understanding the mechanisms, prevalence, and impacts of MCS requires rigorous, interdisciplinary research. ASEQ-EHAQ is committed to supporting researchers with data, published findings, and opportunities for collaboration.
Evidence That Drives Change
Accessible Canada Act · 2019
Are You 2040 Ready?
Canada’s barrier-free deadline demands evidence-based standards. Research is essential to informing the policies and practices that will make accessibility achievable for people living with MCS.
Research generated by ASEQ-EHAQ and collaborators helps build the evidence needed to understand MCS, reduce environmental barriers, and inform more accessible policies, spaces, and practices across Canada.
Why Research on MCS Matters
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic condition and recognized disability in which individuals experience multisystem symptoms triggered by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals at low levels of exposure. Despite a growing body of evidence, MCS remains underrepresented in clinical training, public health policy, and research funding.
Current Research Projects
ASEQ-EHAQ leads and collaborates on national research initiatives that combine scientific investigation with community engagement and lived experience.
Accessible Indoor Air in the Built Environment
Strategy 1 — Measuring Knowledge and Awareness of MCS
Strategy 3 — Practical Guide for Inclusion and Accommodation
A community-informed guide — How to Request Inclusion — designed to support individuals in articulating accommodation needs, navigating stigma, and communicating effectively with employers, educators, and service providers.
Impact of COVID-19 Health Measures on Adults with MCS: Cross-Sectional Study
Examined how COVID-19 health measures — including increased use of disinfectants, cleaning products, and sanitation protocols — created additional chemical exposures and compounded existing barriers for people living with MCS across Canada.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Quality of Life of Adults with MCS: Qualitative Study
Explored the lived experiences of adults with MCS during the COVID-19 pandemic across five domains: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, the physical environment, and healthcare access.
Peer-Reviewed Publications
ASEQ-EHAQ and its research collaborators have contributed to a growing body of peer-reviewed literature on MCS.
Published to Date
Key Research Themes
Priority areas where additional research can support better outcomes for people living with MCS.
Mechanisms & Pathophysiology
Neurological, immunological, and environmental mechanisms underlying MCS, including sensitization pathways and multisystem responses.
Prevalence & Epidemiology
Population-level data on MCS prevalence, demographic patterns, comorbidities, and trends using national survey instruments such as Statistics Canada's CCHS.
Indoor Air Quality & Built Environment
How building design, materials, cleaning practices, and fragrance use affect indoor air quality and create accessibility barriers.
Clinical Recognition & Diagnosis
Gaps in medical education, diagnostic approaches, and clinical validation of MCS, including screening tools such as the BREESI and QEESI.
Accommodation & Accessibility
Effectiveness of accommodation measures, including scent-free policies, source-control strategies, and workplace adjustments.
Lived Experience & Health Equity
Qualitative and community-engaged research exploring the social, economic, and psychological impacts of MCS.
Collaboration and Data Access
ASEQ-EHAQ welcomes collaboration with academic institutions, government agencies, clinician-researchers, and interdisciplinary teams.
Conferences and Events
Resilience 2026 — International Conference on MCS
A virtual, two-day international conference bringing together researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and advocates. Presented in partnership with Women's College Hospital.
Indoor Air Quality: Bridging Science and Inclusion
A web conference supported by Accessibility Standards Canada, presenting findings from the Accessible Indoor Air in the Built Environment research project.