Environmental Illnesses
Mold Exposure
The effects of mold on human health are well documented across literature: Based on epidemiological data, it is predicted that 5% of the population would experience allergic symptoms due to mold exposure during their lifetime (Hardin, B.D. et al., 2003). A meta analysis of existing studies has demonstrated that indoor mold exposure is directly correlated with manifestation of allergies and respiratory symptoms such cough, runny noses, nasal congestion and respiratory tract infection (Fisk, W.J. et al., 2007). In addition, mycotoxin secreted by mold is highly toxic to human, which can induce symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, depression of circulatory white blood cells, and damage to bone marrow, thymus, spleen and mucous membranes of the intestines (Real Time laboratories, n.d.). Health Canada has stated in their website that there is no “safe” level of indoor mold exposure, as different individuals have different sensitivity to mold (2011); therefore, any mold that is present in the patient’s immediate environment should be promptly removed.
References
Fisk, W. J., Lei-Gomez, Q., & Mendell, M. J. (2007). Meta-analyses of the associations of respiratory health effects with dampness and mold in homes. Indoor Air, 17(4), 284-296.
Hardin, B. D., Kelman, B. J., & Saxon, A. (2003). Adverse human health effects associated with molds in the indoor environment. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 45(5), 470- 478.
Health Canada. (2011). Dampness, mold and indoor air. Retrieved from: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/environ/air-eng.php
Real Time Laboratory. (n.d.). Mold information- mycotoxin. Retrieved from: http://www.realtimelab.com/patients-mold-and-mycotoxin-information/mold-information-mycotoxins
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