You Could Be Sick From Mold, But Are Not Aware Of It!
Working, researching, and writing about mold since 2011 has taught me one critical lesson:most people sick from mold do not realize that mold is making them sick.
Unfortunately, the burden of determining if mold is the cause of the sickness, is usually up to the patient. This conclusion is based upon over a dozen interviews I have conducted with mold survivors that began in 2013 when I worked with a company in Western Canada and currently with Wonder Makers Environmental as their Marketing Director.
As stated in a previous blog, I have learned five key lessons during these interviews:
There is a lack of appreciation in the medical community of the impact mold can have on certain individuals.
Symptoms from mold sickness are broad, leading to multiple mis-diagnosis of patients by many doctors.
Mold sensitized individuals seek help from multiple medical practitioners because their illnesses continue.
The mold sensitized individual eventually learns that mold has been the cause of their sickness.
Because traditional remediation approaches do not adequately address their sensitivities, mold sensitized individuals often are forced to seek alternative shelters.
The purpose of this article is to explain the top three reasons that mold sickness is a hidden epidemic.
#1 Hidden Mold!
One of the major points made by the one hour documentary, MOLDY is that hidden mold is a huge concern. Simply put, the dramatic photos you see showing full-scale infestations of black mold after floods and hurricanes are the exception not the rule.
The seven areas listed below are the most common areas in a home where you will find mold.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
The most common area where you will find mold is under the sinks because of leaks.
Appliances
Another potential source of leaks are your refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machines. Check behind and under the appliances for mold.
Roof
If you notice water stains on the ceilings, then your roof could be leaking which will cause mold if the leak is not repaired.
Windows
If you have condensation in the home, you will likely find mold on the window sills and around the windows.
Basement
If there is high humidity in your home, then check your basement and other areas of the home for mold.
Closets
Leaky pipes, high humidity, and other sources of moisture can result in hidden mold in your closets. If there are boxes in the closet, move them and check the walls and floor for mold.
Crawl Spaces
Moisture in your crawl space will cause mold to grow.
According to the documentary:
At least 45 million buildings in the United Stats have unhealthy levels of mold.
You have a 33% chance of being exposed to toxic mold when you move into a new home, apartment or office. The documentary also emphasizes the fact that many foods are contaminated with mold, including corn, peanuts, and coffee.
Approximately 28 percent of the population have genes that make them highly susceptible to mold-related health issues.
Despite the fact that mold is a significant health concern, like lead and asbestos, there are no federal environmental protections laws.
The number one reason mold is an epidemic; it is hidden and makes people sick.
#2 Building Practices Encourage Mold Growth
Modern day building building practices promote mold growth because homes are built with materials that mold loves to eat: wood, drywall, carpet, etc.
Moisture is the key component mold needs to grow and thrive. With this in mind, mold growth is a problem that can be prevented.
Unfortunately, according to the MOLDY documentary, at least 50 percent of homes in the United States have water damage issues caused by water line leaks, tears in moisture vapor barriers, leaky showers, condensation under eaves, and water pooling in crawl spaces. It is this water damage which causes mold to grow.
Improving building practices to prevent moisture issues is the single most effective way to prevent mold.
#3 Doctors Are Not Educated on Mold Sickness
Possibly every doctor in the United States is treating mold illness, and they just don’t realize it. (Dr. Scott McMahon, MD)
One of the key points made by the MOLDY documentary: most Physicians are unable to properly diagnose mold sickness patients because they do not have the knowledge or training.
According to Hilesca Hidalgo, a woman I interviewed earlier this year:
There is such a huge gap in care when it comes to mold illness that I found it extremely frustrating. I believe every medical assessment should include the question “have you been in a water damaged building?” There were many times that I felt so alone and with so little support that I didn’t know what to do. Luckily I have met some wonderful people in the many mold support groups that I have joined. The amount of people inflicted with mold illness and co-infections is unbelievable! So many have been misdiagnosed and unable to find medical help. They have shared their experiences and their healing and really helped guide me in finding my healing journey.
The experience of Hilesca Hidalgo is a common experience faced by most individuals battling mold sickness.
Your best defense is to first verify that your home has mold which can be done through a professional mold inspection.
Once mold is verified, then seek out an environmental physician with experience dealing with mold afflicted patients. To find listings of environmental doctors throughout the world, click here.
Once you are diagnosed, you need to follow the medical treatment designed to detox your body and allow your immune system to recover and begin to regain its strength. The detox strategy will be prescribed by your physician who will likely recommend that you remove yourself from the property that has been making you sick until it is safe to occupy again.
As stated by Dr. Mark Hyman, MD, interviewed in the MOLDY documentary:
If you think you have a mold illness, there’s a way out….One, you have to get rid of it in your environment and Two, you have to get it out of your body, and Three, you have to repair the damage that has been done.
Questions? Mold B Gone is here to help! If you suspect that mold is making you sick, call us, 678-697-6267 or contact us via e-mail for further assistance.
Our goal is to help you live a healthier and happy life.
Most importantly, we truly empathize with your situation and are committed to helping you and guarantee our services.
Is #Mold Sickness A Hidden Epidemic?: Top 3 Reasons Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic! You could be sick from mold and not even know it. This article explains why mold is a hidden epidemic!
In her blog, Blindsided By Mold: A True Story About A Bathroom Renovation Gone Bad—So Very, Very Bad, Trish Holder documented her battle with mold that resulted directly from a bathroom renovation project. As opposed to hiring a contractor with experience and a solid understanding of the potential risks caused by mold, she chose to hire her friend, who was a contractor.
The contractor renovated her bathroom, but did not install the shower liner and tile properly. The end result was moisture intrusion that led to a significant mold infestation that took two months and resulted in 10s of thousands of dollars worth of damage.
Trish was lucky because the contractor took full responsibility for the problem and paid for all the mold removal and reconstruction. This is a best case scenario!
But what if the contractor you hired caused the mold problem and did not pay to fix it? Then what?
The key to avoiding this type of problem is to do your due diligence when you hire a contractor. Get references, check their BBB record, find out how much experience they have, talk to other home owners who used their services, etc. Do your homework. In other words, don’t just hire the cheapest option, but the best option that can help you avoid a potential moldy nightmare!
The best option when hiring a contractor is to work with a company that has prior experience with mold testing, mold removal, and IAQ testing because they know how to prevent mold from spreading. There are many contractors, like Mold B Gone, that not only specialize in mold, but also reconstruction and renovations.
The remainder of this article will answer these three questions:
Why could I have mold in my home?
What should I do if I find mold during the renovation project?
What can I do to prevent future mold problems?
Why Could I Have Mold In My Home?
According to some experts, mold is present in up to 60% of the homes in the United States.
For this reason, D.S. Berenson, an attorney with the Washington firm Johanson Berenson, stated the following:
“Mold should be treated by contractors with respect. It’s not a fire drill or a joke. The situation is no different than when a contractor encounters some other variable (asbestos, radon, lead paint) that he isn’t equipped to handle.”
The key ingredient mold needs to grow and thrive is moisture.
Unfortunately, there are ample sources of moisture in a home that could be caused by water damage from leaky pipes, a leaky roof, shower walls with cracks, foundations that allow moisture intrusion, excessive humidity of 70%, past flooding issues, etc.
People have this mis-conception that mold is only found in old homes. However, this is not true.
A disturbing trend is the fact that mold is often found in newer homes. The prevalence of mold in newer homes is directly related to the trend towards building energy efficient homes, which prevents drafts and cross-ventilation. Sealing homes tight with vapor barriers, traps moisture. The other problem is builders tend to use cheaper materials to build homes, opting for OSB, which acts like a sponge when it gets wet, contributing to mold growth.
Since mold could be in 6 out of 10 homes, if you are considering a renovation or remodeling project, then it is very important that you understand what to do if you find mold…
What Should I Do If I Find Mold During The Renovation Project?
Many Do It Yourselfers that take on home renovation projects like interior painting, kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovation, floor replacement, and window replacement, rarely understand the risks of mold. Even if they do, they may not know how to ensure that the mold contamination is prevented from spreading throughout the home.
The biggest risk you encounter by doing the renovation yourself or hiring an inexperienced contractor is cross contamination, meaning the spores spread throughout the home. You need to contain the area where you find mold to prevent this from happening. Most importantly, prevent the spores from entering your HVAC system, to prevent contamination of the duct system, spreading spores into every area of the home.
With this in mind, if you find mold during the tear down process of drywall, removal of carpet or flooring, and/or during the removal of bathroom fixtures such as the tub, shower liner, etc. your first priority is to determine the extent of the problem. If you are not sure how to do this, call a professional mold inspector.
Before you do anything, determine what the underlying moisture issue is because mold only grows when there is moisture present. Further renovations and reconstruction should only commence once the underlying cause of the moisture problem, i.e. the moisture source is identified and fixed. Failure to do this will result in future costly headaches if this step is not taken.
For mold problems under 50 square feet, like a few patches on a wall, then you can likely manage the mold problem yourself.
It is worth getting a formal mold inspection and/or air quality test on your home before you decide to remove any mold yourself. It is better to be cautious, particularly when you are dealing with mold because exposure can cause health issues.
If you decide to remove the mold yourself make sure you keep these tips in mind:
Prevent cross contamination by setting up a containment, using poly you can get from your local hardware store. Also, be sure to close off any vents in the area of mold removal.
Understand that mold can be toxic, so be safe. Wear protective googles, rubber gloves, a dust mask, and protective clothing, preferably a tyvek suit.
Don’t just spray the mold contaminated materials with bleach, praying your mold problem will go away. Bleach is not effective on porous materials, so it is best to throw out contaminated ceiling tiles, carpet, underpad, drywall, etc. Double bag and dispose of mold contaminated materials properly.
Mold contamination on non-porous materials can be scrubbed or brushed off. You may also find some biocides and fungicides at your local hardware store or online that could be effective.
If you encounter mold, under no circumstances should you ignore it. Address your mold problem to prevent:
Your property value from declining. Understand that as long as the conditions are present for mold growth, it will thrive and grow. Mold is like a parasite or cancer and will continue to feed on your home, causing wood to rot, and future structural integrity issues.
Ensure vapour barriers and insulation are in good condition and properly placed.
If there is a moisture event such as a flood or major leak, dry the materials as soon as possible. To prevent mold growth, wet materials need to be dried or removed within 24 to 48 hours.
Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer. Humidity levels should be maintained between 30 percent to 50 percent.
Reduce indoor mold spore counts with cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors to allow fresh air in.
Properly seal windows, insulate cold water pipes and air conditioning vents to prevent condensation-related moisture issues.
Clean and repair eaves troughs and downspouts regularly so that water flows away from the foundation of your home.
If your home or basement has excessive humidity, use a dehumidifier, and consider water proofing your basement, particularly if it is susceptible to moisture intrusion.
Use your senses to monitor areas of your home that are most likely to develop mold: bathrooms, kitchens, basements and attics. Visual clues likes surface discoloration and musty, earthy smells are clues that you may have mold growing in these areas.
When cooking or showering turn on the kitchen and bathroom fans to prevent excess moisture, humidity and condensation issues. Ideally run the fans for 30 to 60 minutes.
One of the problems with the mold remediation industry is the lack of regulation. Because of this, there are many contractors that believe they can offer mold removal services without the proper training or experience.
This is particularly true when you encounter mold removal contractors that recommend that mold can be simply killed. The problem with this approach is that it is not a permanent solution to a mold problem. In short, there is no “quick fix” for mold contamination situations. As a consumer, you need to be cautious about hiring contractors that offer magical solutions that involve just spraying a chemical to kill the mold dead.
“Killing mold, but leaving the residue in place, is not acceptable. Since many health impacts can be triggered by exposure to both live and dead mold spores, the source and secondary contamination must be removed.” (MOLD INDOORS: Killing it is Not Enough)
Mold 101: The Basics
Mold thrives when moisture is present. Removing mold without addressing the cause of the problem, ie. identifying the moisture source is not a long term solution. Before any mold removal, the moisture problem must first be found and fixed.
Exposure to mold spores, both live and dead, and their byproducts like microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), mycotoxins, connecting filaments, etc. can cause illnesses ranging from minor allergic reactions, respiratory problems like asthma and sinusitis, to more serious, life threatening illnesses.
With respect to health, every individual responds to mold differently. Some people get sick, others don’t. A little bit of mold can make some residents of a property sick, but will not have an impact on others. Research has shown that 25% of the population have a genetic predisposition to mold illness and the condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
Mold is a biological agent that will continue to grow as long as the right conditions exist. This is the reason that mold is such a concern because it will continue to thrive and grow unless it is removed and the underlying moisture cause is fixed. In short, ignoring a mold problem will make the situation worse and pose more dangers.
Contractors trained in mold removal, refer to the process as “remediation” because they have invested in specialized training and equipment and take precautions to prevent the spread of the mold in other parts of the building. Mold remediation specialists will never recommend a “quick fix” because they understand that relying on mold sprays, bleach, biocides, and fungicides are an ineffective “short cut” to mold removal.
The Bleach Myth!
“Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of bleach when proposed as a cleaner or sanitizing agent is that its effectiveness is greatly reduced in the presence of organic material. To be a successful sanitizer, bleach must be used on clean materials and surfaces. This is why bleach products are used in the laundry after the wash cycle or in a commercial kitchen as a component in the third sink after the dishes have been washed and rinsed. The efficacy of bleach as a sanitizer is also compromised by heat and light. Despite the fact that the chlorine odor may linger for some time after use, bleach loses strength so quickly that it is not considered to have a residual effect that would prevent future bacterial or fungal growth.” (Michael Pinto, Why Restoration Professionals Should Avoid Using Bleach)
One of the benefits of the Internet is it allows anyone to search for a topic of interest and find the information they are looking for.
Unfortunately, with respect to mold removal, the bleach myth is perpetuated on the Internet on countless websites.
Bleach may have some impact on non-porous materials, like bathroom tiles, but bleach is completely ineffective on porous materials:
“If you spray bleach all over your “black toxic mold” you won’t kill every single spore….To kill every single mold spore using bleach, for example, you’d have to use such a high concentration of disinfectant and you’d have to keep it on the surface for so long that more likely you’d damage the structure – and still miss some toxic spores.” (How to Kill Mold – Do We Want to? Is Dead Mold Dangerous?)
Other reasons we do not recommend the use of bleach:
Bleach does not address the cause of the mold problem!
Bleach is dangerous!
Bleach evaporates!
Bleach Does Not Address The Cause Of The Mold Problem!
Experienced mold removal specialists understand that the most effective way to deal with mold is to first find the moisture source and make sure it is fixed.
The next step is to remove the mold contaminated porous materials.
Proper removal of mold contaminated materials like drywall, carpet, soft goods, insulation, and other porous materials is essential because mold has hyphae, which are basically roots that embed themselves in the material.
This is the reason that bleach does not work. Bleach may kill some of the surface mold, but it will not be able to penetrate and kill the roots.
The other reason bleach is a problem is that it is diluted with water. Spraying this is counter-productive because water is an essential ingredient mold needs to grow.
Keep in mind, even if another biocide or fungicide is sprayed on the material, killing the roots, the material will still be contaminated with dead spores. The best course of action to permanently deal with a mold problem on porous materials is to properly dispose of the contaminated material.
Bleach Is Dangerous!
When you are using bleach you should always wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator for three key reasons.
Bleach is a corrosive that could irritate and damage your skin.
During the spraying and evaporation process, bleach releases chlorine gas that will impact the eyes and respiratory system.
One of the by-products of chlorine bleach are dioxins, linked to cancer.
If you intend to use bleach for household cleaning projects, never mix it with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes will be produced.
Bleach Evaporates!
The core ingredient of bleach is chlorine. Over time, chlorine can evaporate and escape through the plastic container. In short, the longer bleach sits, the more ineffective it will become because the chlorine dissipates.
Final Thoughts: Killing Mold Is Not The Answer!
“Even if in theory we could “kill” every spore, the assumption that they are unimportant is highly questionable. “Dead” spores often contain allergens or toxins that are just as harmful to someone breathing them or getting such mold in one’s eye or in a cut, as before….The object is not to “kill” mold, it is – to remove the mold reservoir in the building by physical cleaning or in cases of items that can’t be cleaned, such as drywall, soft goods, carpets, furniture, or insulation, remove the moldy material – to identify the cause and make sure that’s been corrected.” (How to Kill Mold – Do We Want to? Is Dead Mold Dangerous?)
The core reason Mold B Gone offers a 5 year or a 25 year guarantee on our mold remediation services: we understand that killing mold is not a long term solution to your mold problem.
We also understand that chemicals, like bleach, will not work because of our training and experience.
Because of our mechanical engineering background, we know how to inspect the structural integrity of your home or business while performing inspections or remediation.
We know where to look for mold and most importantly how to prevent future mold from recurring because we understand that the core cause of mold is moisture.
We are able to offer such a substantial guarantee on our services because our founder, Johnny Wells, has a chemical engineering background. This education has led to the formation of a successful chemical company, Citri Fresh, that uses all natural ingredients to prevent future mold growth using products such as Mold Zap, Mold Shield, and Mold-B-Gone.
If you have a mold problem, contactMold B Gone. We are experts at IAQ testing, identifying the moisture source causing the mold, removing the mold, and most importantly, preventing future mold growth using our proprietary chemical line.
Questions? Call 678-697-6267, send us an e-mail, or contact us on FaceBook! We look forward to serving you. 🙂
Are Dead #Mold Spores Harmful?: Mold sprays, bleach, biocides, and fungicides are an ineffective “short cut” to mold removal. Killing mold is not the answer! This article explains why.
The purpose of this article is to provide you with information pertaining to research on the link between mold and sinus infections.
If you have asthma, sinusitis, or other respiratory conditions, please explore the possibility that mold may be the cause.
Medications and treatment can only be effective if it deals with the cause of the health condition.
In short, if the root cause of your health problems are mold, then the only way to get healthy is to do something about the mold concern.
10 Key Stats and Facts About Sinusitis!
Acute sinusitis is caused by bacterial infections that usually last a month or less.
Chronic sinusitis lasts three months or longer.
Chronic sinusitis is an inflammation of the membranes of the nose and sinus cavity.
Small growths, referred to as polyps, often develop in the nasal passages of chronic sinusitis patients causing significant breathing challenges.
Signs of sinusitis include the following: facial and/or teeth pain; tenderness and swelling around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead; sinus pressure or congestion; difficulty breathing through the nose; loss of the sense of smell or taste; sinus headache.
Approximately 37 million Americans or 12% of the population suffer from chronic sinusitis.
Every week there are about 308,000 doctor visits or 16 million per year by sinusitis patients.
Over $150 million is spent each year on prescription medications to treat sinusitis patients.
Over $1 billion is spent each year on over-the-counter medications by sinusitis patients.
Direct healthcare expenditures due to sinusitis cost are well over $8 billion each year.
Sinusitis Treatments
Antibiotics, over-the-counter medications, and balloon sinuplasty (BSP) are the mainstream treatments currently offered to patients that suffer from sinusitis.
Antibiotics may help acute sinusitis patients because these drugs are able to target the bacterial cause. Such drugs, however, are not effective for chronic sinusitis patients because it likely does not address the actual cause of the problem (explained below).
There are many over-the-counter drugs also available which do provide some temporary relief, but are not long term solutions because they do not reduce the inflammation which is causing the discomfort.
A medical procedure, Balloon Sinuplasty (BSP), is performed in outpatient surgical facilities under local anesthetic. This procedure widens the sinus cavity to allow for better sinus drainage and function.
MAYO Clinic Researchers Believe That MOLD Is The Primary Cause Of Chronic Sinusitis
Mayo Clinic Doctors: David Sherris; Eugene Kern; and Jens Ponikau, believe chronic sinusitis is caused by a fungus that causes an immune reaction:
“Medications haven’t worked for chronic sinusitis because we didn’t know what the cause of the problem was. Fungus allergy was thought to be involved in less than ten percent of cases. Our studies indicate that, in fact, fungus is likely the cause of nearly all of these problems. And it is not an allergic reaction, but an immune reaction. This is a potential breakthrough that offers great hope for the millions of people who suffer from this problem. We can now begin to treat the cause of the problem instead of the symptoms. Finally we are on the trail of a treatment that may actually work.”
The researchers studied 210 patients with chronic sinusitis, collecting mucus samples from the noses of the patients. They discovered fungus in 96 percent and identified 40 different kinds of fungi, each patient averaging 2.7 kinds.
Nasal polyps were also removed from 101 of these patients. The researchers found eosiniphils, which are a type of white blood cell activated by the body’s immune system, in the nasal tissue and mucus of the patients.
This discovery shows that in sensitive individuals, the body’s immune system is sending the eosinophils to attack the fungi, which in turn irritates the membranes of the nose. Consequently, traditional treatments do not work because they do not rid the body of the fungi that is irritating the membranes and causing the inflammation.
Since mold is found everywhere, the doctors believe that fungal spores, which become airborne and then are breathed in by the sufferers of chronic sinusitis, perpetuates their condition caused by the immune response. Further research is underway to set up trials to test medications to control the fungus.
Tips To Alleviate Your Sinusitis Condition
Chronic sinusitis patients should try to limit their exposure to mold spores, which can be challenging when you are outside. Monitor the weather for air quality alerts that report high levels of spores and pollen, and limit your outdoor activities.
You have greater control over your indoor environment where you can take some proactive actions to limit exposure to mold.
The number one question you need to answer is whether or not you have a mold problem in your home?
This can be determined with a mold inspection or air quality test.
In addition, here are some tips to optimize your indoor air quality for long term health:
Maintain healthy humidity levels between 30% to 50% to minimize moisture and prevent mold growth.
If you do find mold in your home, fix the moisture source which is the key ingredient mold needs to grow and then hire a professional to remove the mold.
Maintain your HVAC system so that it is operating efficiently and circulating clean, healthy air. This is particular important in hotter climates where residents rely on air conditioning to reduce humidity and stay cool. You want to ensure that your air conditioner is not a source of mold contamination in your home, so yearly maintenance and professional inspections are highly recommended.
If you suffer from asthma, sinusitis, or other respiratory ailments, call Mold B Gone to determine if you have a mold problem. If you do, the short term cost to remove the mold will be minor compared to the long term health benefits you will gain. Questions? We are here to help you with mold removal in Atlanta. Call, (470) 545-4467, or send us an e-mail.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory inflammatory disease of the airways that makes it difficult to breathe and is caused by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs. The exact causes of asthma are not known, though research believes that the most common triggers are mold, allergies, tobacco smoke, environmental factors, genetics, and other factors.
The goal of this article is to explore the relationship between asthma and mold, citing recent research on the mold trigger and is divided up into the following sections:
Asthma Statistics
Asthma Statistics in Georgia
Legal Evidence Citing Link Between Mold and Asthma
Research Studies on Mold and Asthma
The Impact of Mold Removal on Alleviating Asthma
Asthma Statistics
Asthma Statistics
Asthma affects 300 million people in the world and more than 22 million Americans. According to Michael Pinto, CEO, of Wonder Makers Environmental:
Not surprisingly, six million American children suffer from asthma.
According to research by Crown Preservation, if the building has mold, respiratory conditions and asthma increased by up to 50%. Further, it is believed that 21% of the asthma cases or 4.6 million Americans suffer from asthma caused by dampness and mold. The health care costs for asthma in the United States are $3.5 billion each year.
The infographic below provides a macro view of asthma statistics in the United States and the rest of the world.
Asthma Statistics
Asthma Statistics in Georgia
Asthma Statistics in Georgia
According to the CDC, about 10% (more than 900,000 people) of the residents of Georgia suffer from asthma.
The average number of adults in the United States that have asthma is 13.5%; in Georgia, the percentage of adults that have asthma is below the national average and only 12.7%.
Statistically, however, asthma rates among children in Georgia are about 3% higher than the national average of 13.3%, sitting at around 16.1%.
Simply put, compared to the national average, more children in Georgia suffer from asthma.
Legal Evidence Citing Link Between Mold and Asthma
Legal Evidence Citing Link Between Mold and Asthma
In 2013, NBC Dateline produced a documentary called Breathless.
The key conclusion made by the documentary: rates of asthma in public housing managed by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) was much higher among children then it was in private housing.
This revealing documentary furthered the cause of frustrated tentants, who sued NYCHA for violating the Americans With Disabilities Act.
The tenants core argument was that NYCHA was not respecting their health because they were not properly fixing moisture problems that was causing respiratory ailments and asthma. In short, NYCHA’s lack of action to address moisture problems was perpetuating the disability caused by asthma, particularly for children.
NYCHA eventually settled out of court and agreed that mold and moisture was a health threat. This recognition is very important because a public housing authority, that housed more than 400,000 tenants, finally agreed that mold causes respiratory ailments and asthma, demonstrating that they understood that moisture was the root cause of the problem.
Research Studies on Mold and Asthma
Research Studies on Mold and Asthma
Finish Mold and Asthma Study
In 2001, Dr. Maritta Kilpelainen, based out of the University of Turku in Finland, surveyed 10,000 students about the dampness of their homes. The students were asked to report back on the frequency of colds and other respiratory ailments.
Her survey study revealed the following:
Students were twice as likely to have asthma if they found visible mold in their homes.
The odds of having at least four colds per year increased by 50% if there was visible mold.
There was a higher risk of lung infections, bronchitis and pneumonia, in students’ homes that had visible mold and water damage.
Cincinnati Mold and Asthma Study
Since Dr. Kilpelainen did not take actual swab samples of the mold or do air quality tests, her study is considered anecdotal and not conclusive; “mold minimizers” cite her study as more of a theory than actual proof that there is a link between mold and asthma.
In 2012, researchers in Cincinnati, led by Tiina Reponen, decided to explore the link between mold and asthma further by studying the effect of mold on children.
The researchers studied the effects of mold on about 300 children and found that there are three mold species harmful to children: Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus unguis and Penicillium variabile. All three of these molds are prevalent in water damaged homes.
Reponen, co-author of the study, concluded:
“While it is known that mold is a risk factor for asthma, this is the first study that quantitatively measured mold and after adjusting for commonly known risk factors, found an association with asthma. Previously, other studies had shown qualitative or anecdotal associations.”
This conclusion clearly indicates that mold exposure in infancy can cause asthma, so it is very important that expectant mothers and families with small children avoid living in water damaged buildings.
Researchers studied children, ages 6 to 15, in 44 schools, and made the following conclusion:
“Classroom Aspergillus/Penicillium and basidiospores are significantly associated with childhood asthma and asthma with symptoms reduced on holidays or weekends (ASROH). Government health policy should explore environmental interventions for the elimination of fungal spores in classrooms to reduce the prevalence of childhood asthma.”
UK Mold and Asthma Study
In the same year, 2014, a study out of the UK made similar conclusions about mold and asthma. Dr. Richard Sharpe of the University of Exeter Medical School found that high levels of the fungal species Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Cladosporium poses a significant health risk to people with asthma, worsening the symptoms in both children and adults.
Sharpe and his team reviewed 17 studies that were done in eight different countries and concluded:
“Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, and Penicillium species were found to be present in higher concentrations in homes of asthmatic participants. Exposure to Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Cladosporium species were found to be associated with increased risk of reporting asthma symptoms by a limited number of studies. The presence of Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, and Penicillium species increased the exacerbation of current asthma symptoms by 36% to 48% compared with those exposed to lower concentrations of these fungi, as shown by using random-effect estimates. Studies were of medium quality and showed medium-high heterogeneity, but evidence concerning the specific role of fungal species was limited.” (Indoor fungal diversity and asthma: A meta-analysis and systematic review of risk factors)
Other conclusions from this study, included the following:
Dampness and fungal contamination in the home has been consistently shown to increase the risk of asthma and the severity of its symptoms.
Majority of the evidence reviewed focuses on the exacerbation of asthma symptoms, and few assess their role in the development of asthma.
So far Aspergillus and Penicillium species have already been linked to an increase in the risk of asthma development in children, but we know little about the effects of the other species we considered.
Dampness is one of the major factors affecting the growth of mold inside homes, a problem which has been on the rise as aging houses are sealed and retrofitted with new energy efficient technology. We currently know very little about how people’s living habits can contribute to indoor air quality, and ultimately affect their health. This study highlights the need for homes to have adequate heating, ventilation and home maintenance, all factors that will help to reduce the presence of mold and its effects on asthma symptoms.
The Impact of Mold Removal in Alleviating Asthma
The Impact of Mold Removal in Alleviating Asthma
The research studies cite both quantitative and qualitative evidence correlating a strong link between mold and asthma.
From an economic stand point, the health care costs related to asthma are $3.5 billion dollars. Much of the treatment focuses on the use of medications, a band aid solution because drugs and inhalers may not be addressing the root cause, mold.
Will the health care community and insurance providers finally begin acknowledging the positive impact that mold remediation will have? Michael Pinto, CEO of Wonder Makers, believes there is a strong argument for the environmental causes of asthma to one day be addressed by health insurance providers that see the benefits of mold removal as an asthma preventative measure.
Failure to address the cause negatively impacts the sufferer’s health and also has a significant economic cost from a health care standpoint and lost productivity.
Considering the health costs of asthma, it makes logical sense for the real cause of asthma, i.e. mold to be addressed and removed, particularly if there are children in the home.
“It’s proof of common sense that you want to take care of mold in the home. It’s just proving that if you don’t do that, your kids are more likely to develop asthma.” (Gary Steven, an allergist at the Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center in Milwaukee)
Furthering the argument to remove mold for asthma relief, a study published in the scientific journal Thorax concluded that mold remediation – the removal of visible mold – improved respiratory illnesses:
Asthma and rhinitis symptoms and the use of medications to treat them were reduced in patients who took part in a randomized controlled trial to see if removing visible household mold would relieve their symptoms.
After a year the intervention group (those whose mold was removed) reduced their use of medications by 22 percent while the controls reduced their medications by 16 percent.
The intervention group also reported about 24 percent net improvement in rhinitis and rhino conjunctivitis symptoms than the control group.
The intervention group also showed an improvement in wheezing that affected their activities like sleeping and speaking (31 percent vs. 7 percent improvement reported by the control group).
If you suffer from asthma, one of the most important steps that you can take to improve your condition is to determine if you have mold in your home. Consider getting the air quality of your home tested to determine if the trigger is mold because the short term cost of removing the mold could net long term health benefits and savings in health costs as well.
Mold B Gone is here to help and committed to serving mold sensitized residents and asthma sufferers. If you suspect that mold is making you sick, call us, 678-697-6267 or contact Mold B Gone for further assistance. Our goal is to help you live a healthier and happy life. Most importantly, we truly empathize with your situation and are committed to helping you and guarantee our services.
What Is The Link Between #Mold and #Asthma?: According to the CDC, rates of asthma among children in Georgia is 3% above the national average. Is mold a factor? This article cites stats and research!
The final article in this series provides you with ten tips to prevent mold in your basement. Implement these tips to avoid future headaches and costly mold removal in the future.
Fix The Flooding Source!
The first step to preventing future flooding is to determine the cause and fix it. Most basements flood because of backed up drains, leaky pipes, human error (i.e. leaving a tap on), sewer back ups, the lack of a sump pump and/or a malfunctioning sump pump.
Start The Clean Up As Soon As Possible!
The onset of mold will begin within 24 to 48 hours, so it is essential that you begin the clean up immediately.
Hire Experienced Professionals!
If mold is not properly contained and cleaned properly, it can become airborne and contaminate even larger areas of the property.
You need to hire properly trained professionals, like Mold B Gone, who understand how to properly restore a water damaged property and prevent mold growth. Mold growth prevention is important because of the health impact it has and also because mold will impact the structural integrity of the property.
Remove All Wet and Contaminated Materials!
Most insurance companies will not recommend a complete gut for cost savings. Usually they recommend that it is necessary to only remove one foot of drywall above the flood line.
We do not because this could result in long term mold problems because moisture can creep up behind the surface. For this reason, we recommend a complete gut of the basement because the extra short term cost could result in significant long term cost savings.
The last thing you want to happen is for a reconstruction to occur only to find out six months later that you now have a mold problem.
Removal of all the drywall is not our only recommendation. We also suggest the removal of following: all flooring, including the sub-floor; insulation because it absorbs moisture; and finally, if the electrical panel was submerged under water, it should be replaced as well.
“Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of bleach when proposed as a cleaner or sanitizing agent is that its effectiveness is greatly reduced in the presence of organic material. To be a successful sanitizer, bleach must be used on clean materials and surfaces. This is why bleach products are used in the laundry after the wash cycle or in a commercial kitchen as a component in the third sink after the dishes have been washed and rinsed. The efficacy of bleach as a sanitizer is also compromised by heat and light. Despite the fact that the chlorine odor may linger for some time after use, bleach loses strength so quickly that it is not considered to have a residual effect that would prevent future bacterial or fungal growth.”
Do Not Begin Any Rebuild Until the Basement Is Completely Dried Out!
We understand that a flooded basement disrupts your life and you want to resume your normal routine as soon as possible. However, patience is the key.
In addition, if the flood water was category 3, we recommend that swab tests be performed to ensure that the cleaning process was done effectively.
Only after it is verified that the basement is completely dry and sanitized and clearance testing verifies that the indoor air quality is healthy should the basement rebuild begin.
Properly Insulate Your Basement!
According to Mike Holmes, a respected contractor, insulation is one of the most important factors in preventing basement mold:
“When air, which is full of moisture, leaks into that insulation, it will inevitably lead to mould. Here’s why: Your basement, like every room in your home, has its own natural air convection. The air nearest the ceiling is warmer, and the air nearer the floor is cooler. The cold air at the bottom pushes the warm air up. As it rises, it comes into contact with the cooler exterior wall and releases the moisture it’s holding. It condensates. That air and moisture — if it’s able to get into the batt insulation through a gap in the seal — will wick into the insulation. Over time, it will soak that batt to the point that water can drip down the walls and pool on to the floor….You need a thermal break to stop hot from meeting cold….So, use closed cell spray foam insulation or rigid foam insulation, which will provide a thermal break and not trap any moisture. If you’re using foam insulation boards, make sure you Tuck Tape every seam, and spray-foam all corners and joints to create a 100% seal and a perfect thermal break. That way, you’ll know that anything you do inside your finished basement won’t have to be torn out in a few years because of mould.”
Cross-Ventilate!
If possible, open the windows on all sides of your basement in the evenings when the air is cooler to create a cross-ventilation air flow which will prevent excessive moisture and also ensure that a steady stream of fresh air is circulating throughout the basement.
Ensure Water Drains Away From Your Home’s Foundation!
One of the most effective ways to prevent water intrusion is to ensure that water is not sloping towards the foundation of your home but away from it. This is particularly important if your basement walls are porous and can trap moisture, which can lead to mold. To avoid this, ensure that the ground slopes away from the foundation walls of the home and your downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from the property.
Invest In A Dehumidifier!
To prevent excess moisture in your home, use a dehumidifier and consider waterproofing your basement by sealing cracks in the floor and walls with hydraulic cement and a concrete waterproofing sealer where the floor meets the walls.
Questions, call us, 678-697-6267, or contact us via e-mail. We look forward to serving you! 🙂
10 Tips To Prevent Basement #Mold!: If you are concerned about mold in your basement or your basement was recently flooded, implement these 10 tips to prevent mold growth. Learn more!
