Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

September Is Mold Awareness Month!

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

September 2017 marks the 9th annual Mold Awareness Month started by the National Indoor Mold Society:

The purpose of National Indoor Toxic Mold Awareness Month is to inform, educate, and raise awareness about the adverse health effects due to exposure of indoor molds and mycotoxins.” (Executive Director, Letitia Peters)

According to Michael Pinto:

“The reason that mycotoxins are suspected of poisoning people is based on both science and observational connections. “Mycotoxin” is the term that scientists use for a variety of chemical compounds that are produced by fungi during their growth cycle (the official term for mycotoxins is “secondary metabolites”). The suffix toxin is found at the end of the word mycotoxin because a great number of these mold-produced chemicals have been proven to be poisonous to both insects and animals—including people.”

One of the goals of Mold B Gone is to educate consumers in the Atlanta, Georgia area about mold. We believe that every month should be mold awareness month. Since launching this site, we have had nearly 68,000 views from individuals interested in learning more about mold.

There are three key lessons you need to know about mold:

  1. Mycotoxins kill other things, like bacteria and viruses, so mold can continue to grow.
  2. Mold spores, whether dead or alive, can cause adverse health effects.
  3. There is no practical way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

Considering that some molds, like Stachybotrys chartarum and Aspergillus, produce myctoxins that cause sickness, the purpose of this article is to list and explain the top 10 reasons you need to be aware of mold.

#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!

#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!

#1 Mold Needs Less Than 2 Days To Begin Growing!

Mold requires three key ingredients to grow:

  1. Food: wood & wood products; paper and other paper products like cardboard and wallpaper; leather; fabric and upholstery; grout; painted walls; cement; plaster (drywall); ceiling tiles; insulation materials; and carpet.
  2. The ideal temperature of 41 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit; and
  3. Moisture, the key ingredient.

In the presence of moisture, the ideal temperature, and ample food, mold will begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. This is the reason that water damage restoration is so important during a flood event!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

#2 Mold Causes Chronic Sinusitis!

According to Doctors at the Mayo Clinic, David Sherris, Eugene Kern, and Jens Ponikau, chronic sinusitis is caused by a fungus and is 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.”

This conclusion was based on a research study of 210 patients with chronic sinusitis. The Doctors collected mucus samples from the patients’ noses and discovered fungus in 96 percent of the patients. In addition, they identified 40 different kinds of fungi, averaging out to 2.7 types per patient.

Further research was done on 101 of these patients by removing nasal polyps. What they found were eosiniphils, which are which blood cells activated by the immune system in the nasal tissue of the patients. The Doctors believe that this discovery shows that the body’s immune system is sending the eosinophils to attack the fungi which is what is causing the irritation and inflammation of the membranes of the nose. For this reason, they do not believe that traditional treatments work because they do not address the root cause of the problem, fungi, which will continue to irritate the nose membranes.

#3 Your Home Is A Buffet For Mold!

#3 Your Home Is A Buffet For Mold!

#3 Your Home Is A Buffet For Mold!

Mold is nature’s recycler, it’s main purpose in our eco-system is to break down dead organic material.

In the outdoors, the relative number of spores is small enough not to cause significant harmful health effects for most people.

However, indoors, once mold begins to grow, it will cause health concerns because the spore counts will increase. Indoor air quality is a critical concern, particularly in hot and humid climates like Georgia because residents tend to stay indoors more and use their air conditioners for heat relief.

The problem with mold is the fact that most homes are made out of the material that it loves to eat. A home is an “all you can eat buffet” for mold because homes are constructed using dead organic materials: wood & wood products; paper and other paper products like cardboard and wallpaper; leather; fabric and upholstery; grout; painted walls; cement; plaster (drywall); ceiling tiles; insulation materials; and carpet.

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

#4 Mold Causes Asthma!

“Infants who are exposed to mold in their living environments have nearly a three times greater risk of becoming asthmatic than those who did not have extensive mold exposure in their first year of life.” (Medical Evidence that Connects Mold Exposure to Illness Keeps Piling Up)

According to Medical News Today, asthma affects 300 million people in the world and more than 22 million Americans. Although people of all ages suffer from the disease, it most often starts in childhood, currently affecting 6 million children in the US. Asthma kills about 255,000 people worldwide every year.

Asthma is a respiratory condition marked by spasms in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. According to WebMD, no one really knows what causes asthma, but what is known is that it is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Trigger and causes of asthma include allergies, tobacco smoke, environmental factors, obesity, genetics, and other factors.

According to Michael Pinto, CEO, of Wonder Makers Environmental, there is mounting evidence pointing to the link between mold and asthma.

To learn more about the link between mold and asthma, including legal evidence and research studies, click here.

#5 The Core Problem With Mold Is That It Can Grow Undetected!

#5 The Core Problem With Mold Is That It Can Grow Undetected!

#5 The Core Problem With Mold Is That It Can Grow Undetected!

Most people do not realize they have a mold problem because it is hidden.

Mold can be detected through smell, visual clues, and knowledge of the building history, ie. was there a flood or indoor leak.

One of the first signs that you have a mold problem will be a “musty” or “mildewy” odor.

The next step is to determine where the smell is coming from.

The seven areas of the home that you will likely find mold includes the following: bathrooms and kitchen that have leaks under the sink; leaks behind appliances (refrigerator, dishwater, and washing machine); ceilings and walls where there are water leaks; window sills and around the windows where condensation accumulates; your basement; closets; and crawl spaces.

#6 Modern Day Building Practices Promote Mold Growth!

#6 Modern Day Building Practices Promote Mold Growth!

#6 Modern Day Building Practices Promote Mold Growth!

The rush to make quick money and high profits by real estate developers has created a disaster waiting to happen because new homes built today are more susceptible to mold growth.

  1. The quest to reduce energy bills means that many new homes are air tight and lack proper ventilation, conducive to mold growth.
  2. The season that the home was built is also a factor. For instance, if the home was built during a period when there was lots of rain and the foundation was not allowed to completely dry before installing the insulation and vapor barrier, then moisture could be trapped behind the walls.
  3. Building practices have changed. In the past, most homes were built with non-porous materials like plywood and timber which made it difficult for mold to penetrate the surface. Today, cost conscious builders use Orient Strand Board (OSB) and particle board which are porous and susceptible to mold growth.

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.

#7 25% of the Population Is Susceptible To Mold Illness!

#7 25% of the Population Is Susceptible To Mold Illness!

#7 25% of the Population Is Susceptible To Mold Illness!

According to Dr. Richie Shoemaker, physician and expert in the field of biotoxin-related illness and author of the book Surviving Mold, 1 in 4 people have a genetic pre-disposition to the mold illness, Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS):

“Genes made them prime targets for an assault by their own innate immune systems….exposure to the interior environment of a Water-Damaged Building (WDB), [causes] an innate immune response that is going haywire.”

Individuals exposed to the toxins in a water damaged building suffer from chronic illness because their bodies are trying to eliminate the foreign substances that stay in the body resulting in chronic inflammation and multiple symptoms.

It is difficult to diagnose CIRS because there are 37 symptoms patients could suffer from: fatigue; weakness; aches; muscle cramps; unusual pain; ice pick pain; headache; light sensitivity; red eyes; blurred vision; tearing; sinus problems; cough; shortness of breath; abdominal pain; diarrhea; joint pain; morning stiffness; memory issues; focus/concentration issues; word recollection issues; decreased learning of new knowledge; confusion; disorientation; skin sensitivity; mood swings; appetite swings; sweats (especially night sweats); temperature regulation or dysregulation problems; excessive thirst; increased urination; static shocks; numbness; tingling; vertigo; metallic taste; and tremors.

#8 Mold Will Reduce Your Property Value!

#8 Mold Will Reduce Your Property Value!

#8 Mold Will Reduce Your Property Value!

“Mold is a serious issue. If you leave it untreated, it continues to grow. It leads to respiratory illness and it rots the wood, leaving the property valueless.” (Ian Schlake of Respond and Rebuild)

Like a parasite or cancer, mold will continue to grow as long as there is a food source, moisture, and the right temperature.

The only way to stop mold is to address the moisture source to prevent future mold growth and then remove the contaminated porous materials. Effective, long lasting mold remediation is based upon identifying the source of contamination and ensuring it is fixed.

Failing to fix the underlying causes of the mold and effectively removing the mold will lead to reduced property values caused by structural damage as the mold continues to feed on the home.

#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!

#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!

#9 Mold Remediation Can Be Costly!

As mentioned in an earlier article, the cost of mold remediation will depend on three key factors:

  1. How much of the area is infected with mold?
  2. What kind of materials are infected?
  3. How easy is it to access the mold?

On average, the typical household mold removal project will range from $2,000 to $6,000, but can be as high as $30,000 or more depending on the extent of contamination.

The core problem with the mold remediation industry is any contractor can offer mold removal services…so it is truly “Buyer Beware.” Because of the lack of regulation, many contractors believe they can offer mold removal services without the proper training or experience. To stay competitive, these contractors may offer “quick fix” solutions that focusing on killing the mold. However, as stated by Michael Pinto:

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)

Killing mold is not the answer because it is not a permanent solution to a mold problem. Professional mold removal contractors will follow an eight step process to ensure that your mold problem is fixed properly and will back up their work with a guarantee.

Don’t pinch pennies when you encounter a mold problem, the cheapest estimate may not necessarily be the best one. Do your due diligence, ask questions, get references, and most importantly avoid contractors that offer you magical solutions that involve just spraying a chemical to kill the mold dead.

#10 Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic!

#10 Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic!

#10 Mold Sickness Is A Hidden Epidemic!

According to the producers of the MOLDY documentary released earlier this year, most Physicians do not understand or have the knowledge to properly diagnose patients with mold sickness:

“Possibly every doctor in the United States is treating mold illness, and they just don’t realize it.” (Dr. Scott McMahon, MD)

Since most physicians are not trained to treat and identify mold illness, their patients continue to suffer in silence, mis-diagnosis, and a vicious cycle of numerous visits to different doctors and specialists that do not understand why they are sick.

Considering the statistics revealed in the MOLDY documentary it is not surprising that mold sickness is now considered a hidden epidemic.

  1. 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.
  2. Approximately 28 percent of the population have genes that make them highly susceptible to mold-related health issues.
  3. Despite the fact that mold is a significant health concern, like lead and asbestos, there are no federal environmental protections laws.

Mold is a hidden epidemic because it makes people sick and they do not know that mold is the cause!

Got Mold Questions?

Mold B Gone has been serving the Atlanta, Georgia area since 2009. We are experts at detecting and removing mold and specialize in serving the needs of mold sensitized customers. If you have a mold question or concern, please call 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. Peace of mind is just a phone call away!

Top 50 Articles On Mold!

Top 50 Articles On Mold!

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource (50 Articles)

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource

The Ultimate Mold Education Resource (50 Articles)

The goal of Mold B Gone is to educate our customers about mold. We strongly believe that an educated and informed consumer can make better decisions when they have concerns about mold.

Included in this article are 50 links to articles that will help you learn about mold.

Please bookmark this page because we will update it with new articles as they are researched and published.

If you have questions about mold removal, crawl space mold removal and encapsulation, other services we offer, and/or our 1 year up to 25 year guarantee, call us, 678-697-6267, or send us an e-mail. We look forward to serving you. 🙂

Mold Facts and Information (13 Articles)

Mold Facts and Information (13 Articles)

Mold Facts and Information (13 Articles)

  1. Is Mold Cited In The Bible?

    Priests were the equivalent of today’s mold inspectors. This article lists the three passages cited in Leviticus. Learn more!

  2. Top 3 Questions About Crawl Space Humidity!

    This article explains why your crawl space is humid and what you can do about it.

  3. What You Should and Should Not Do When You Find Mold!

    This article explains what you should and should not do if you find mold in your home, church, school, day care center, store, office building, restaurant, or hotel!

  4. 12 Famous Celebrities Affected By Toxic Mold!

    Several high profile celebrities have been impacted by mold. Listed in this article are 12 prominent celebrities that have battled mold.

  5. Bad Air Can Impact Your Health!

    This article explains what causes bad indoor air, health signs, and what you can do about it.

  6. Top 10 Facts About Mold

    Mold Fact 1: The Key Ingredient Mold Needs To Thrive Is Moisture. There are 9 more mold facts explained in this article. What do you think they are?

  7. Why Does Mold Grow In My Attic?

    Top 4 Reasons Mold Grows In Your Attic! The purpose of this article is to explain why mold grows in your attic and prevention tips.

  8. Why Does My Crawlspace Have Mold?

    Top 3 Reasons Your Crawlspace Has High Humidity. This article explains why your crawlspace is humid, why this leads to mold and how you can fix the problem!

  9. What Can I Do If I Have Mold In My Apartment?

    Steps Residents Can Take If They Have Mold In Their Apartment! This article explains what you can do if you find mold in your apartment. Learn more!

  10. Top 10 Reasons You Need To Be Aware Of Mold!

    This article lists and explains the top 10 reasons you need to be aware of mold!

  11. Is Your Crawl Space Contaminating Your Indoor Air?

    The purpose of this article is to explain how and why your crawl space could be contaminating your indoor air.

  12. 7 Places Mold Hides In Your Home!

    This article provides you with information to help you determine if you have a mold problem and explains what you should and should not do if you do find mold.

  13. Why Do Crawl Spaces Need A Vapor Barrier?

    The purpose of this article is to answer the most common questions asked about crawl spaces and explain why your crawl space needs a vapor barrier. Learn more!

Black Mold (2 Articles)

Black Mold (2 Articles)

Black Mold (2 Articles)

  1. Can Toxic Black Mold Poison You?

    Recently a news article featured a woman who believes that she was poisoned by toxic black stachybotrys mold. This article explores this topic further!

  2. Why Is Black Mold A Health Concern?

    Stachybotrys is considered the king of molds because exposure to this toxic black mold causes 15 serious health conditions. Learn more!

Mold and Health (17 Articles)

Mold and Health (17 Articles)

Mold and Health (17 Articles)

  1. Is Mold In Schools Making Kids Sick?

    The purpose of this article is to help you determine if mold and the indoor air quality of your child’s school is making them sick and what you can do. Learn more!

  2. Does Mold Cause Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

    What is the link between mold and chronic fatigue syndrome? Scientific research suggests a relationship between mycotoxins and CFS. Learn more!

  3. 15 FAQs About Mold and Health!

    Wondering why mold is a health concern? This article lists the top 15 questions asked about specific health problems caused by mold. Learn more!

  4. How Do I Know If Mold Is Making Me Sick?

    Wondering if you are sensitive to mold? This article explains how to determine if you are mold sensitized, seeking treatment, and the next two steps to health!

  5. How Toxic Is Mold?

    This article explains why mold can be toxic, listing 10 specific health conditions. Learn more!

  6. Does Mold Affect Pregnant Women and Infants?

    Potential Health Complications Mold Exposure Has On Pregnant Women and Infants! Questions answered about SIDS, asthma, miscarriage, and pulmonary hemorrhage.

  7. Does Your Kids Sippy Cup Have Mold?

    This article article explains why mold grows on sippy cups, why it could make your child sick, and how you should properly clean the sippy cup!

  8. Does Mold Remediation Improve Health?

    Mold Remediation Improves Health! This article explains why, citing an interview with Jack and Helen Graham, a Mold Sensitized Success Story!

  9. Does Mold Cause Multiple Sclerosis?

    Could Some People Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis Actually Be Suffering From Mold Sickness? This article explains how and why. Learn more!

  10. Can Mold In Your Christmas Tree Make You Sick?

    One in Three people get sick from their Christmas tree. This article explains why and what you can do to feel better. Learn more.

  11. Top 37 Symptoms Associated With Mold Illness!

    25% of people are genetically pre-disposed to mold illness. This article explains why, citing scientific research and 37 symptoms associated with CIRS.

  12. How Does Mold Cause Depression?

    This article explains why many suffering from CIRS are diagnosed with depression caused by mold. Both scientific and anectodal data are cited. Learn more!

  13. What Is The Link Between Mold and Parkinson’s Disease?

    Does Mold Cause Parkinson’s Disease? The purpose of this article is to explain why and how mold could be a possible cause of Parkinson’s Disease.

  14. 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!

  15. Are Sinus Infections Caused By Mold?

    37 million Americans suffer from sinusitis. Cause? This article lists the top 10 stats and facts citing MAYO clinic research that believes mold is the cause!

  16. 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!

  17. Mold Recovery: Four Steps

    Mold B Gone helps homeowners and businesses test mold, remove mold and recover from mold.

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

Water Damage and Mold (4 Articles)

  1. How Do I Prevent A Sewer Backup?

    Concerned about sewer backups? This article explains what causes sewers to backup and how you can prevent this from happening. Learn more!

  2. What Are The Top 3 Water Damage Hazards?

    Flood and water damage not only disrupts your life but can also be hazardous to your health! This article explains the top 3 hazards and prevention measures!

  3. Three Steps to Reduce Flood Damage

    A flooded home or business is always a stressful situation. This blog provides you with the 3 steps required to reduce flood damage and most importantly, mold!

  4. Top 3 Facts About Water Damage Restoration

    Water damage restoration restores a property to pre-loss condition after a flood. Check out the top 3 facts. Hint: Mold is not the only concern.

Mold Inspection and Prevention (8 Articles)

Mold Inspection and Prevention (8 Articles)

Mold Inspection and Prevention (8 Articles)

  1. Top 15 Mold Prevention Tips

    Mold growth can be prevented. This article list the top 15 mold prevention tips, to help you live in a mold free home.

  2. Does Your Front Loading Washing Machine Have Mold?

    If you have a front loading machine that has mold problems, this article explains how to prevent it.

  3. Top 3 Reasons To Have a Mold Inspection Before Buying a Home!

    This article lists the top 3 reasons why you should submit an offer to purchase, subject to a home AND mold inspection!

  4. Is Mold A Concern During Renovations?

    Home improvement is an American tradition. But, did you know that 6 out of 10 homes could have mold? Renovating can cause serious problems. Learn more!

  5. How Do I Know If Mold Is Growing In My Basement?

    Basements are susceptible to mold growth. The first clue of mold is a musty smell. This article provides you with 10 tips to prevent basement mold. Learn more!

  6. Why Should I Have An Indoor Air Quality Test?

    If you or someone in your family suffers more frequently from colds or flus and you are not sure why, the cause could be poor indoor air quality. Learn more!

  7. Does Your Air Conditioner Have Mold?

    Do you feel sick when your air conditioner is on? Your AC could be a source of mold contamination. This article explains why. Learn more!

  8. 4 Key Mold Inspection Actions!

    Wonder what happens during a mold inspection? This article answers all your questions, listing the top 4 actions taken by reputable inspectors.

Mold Removal (6 Articles)

Mold Removal (6 Articles)

Mold Removal (6 Articles)

  1. How Is Mold Removal Cost Determined?

    Have a mold concern, wondering what it will cost to remove? This article provides you with a detailed explanation of how mold removal cost is determined!

  2. Killing Mold Is Not The Answer!

    Mold sprays, bleach, biocides, and fungicides are an ineffective “short cut” to mold removal. Killing mold is not the answer! This article explains why.

  3. 8 Steps To Mold Remediation Success!

    Mold Removal Is Referred To As Mold Remediation Because Professionals Follow These 8 Steps. This article explains the steps and why you need to hire a pro!

  4. Mold Recovery: Four Steps

    Mold B Gone helps homeowners and businesses test mold, remove mold and recover from mold.

  5. Mold Remediation Helps Mold Sensitized Woman Move Back In Home!

    This article features a testimonial from a mold sensitized individual who was helped by mold removal.

  6. Mold Remediation Process

    This article lists the eight steps in mold removal. Learn more!

Is Mold In Schools Making Kids Sick?

Is Mold In Schools Making Kids Sick?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child’s School?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child's School?

How Safe Is The Air In Your Child’s School?

“Once school started again, he was having breathing issues; he didn’t have any issues over the summer. This is their health and they have to breathe this in. Every single day that they are there, six hours a day that they are at school. I don’t think that’s fair to them.” (Barbara Gareau, mother of son she suspects is sick from mold)

“My child is never sick. She never has stomach problems or anything like that. It’s just weird. It’s mainly stomach pains, asthma. Some kids are having to take their allergy medicine again when they were not taking it this summer.” (Katherine Saldana, mother of daughter she suspects is sick from mold)

“Mold clung to the ceiling and left dark trails across the walls and floor. The teacher had already complained about the stench months before. Stuff was even growing on desks.” (Toxic schools: Mold, air quality spark thousands of complaints in Central Florida)

Recently there have been several news articles about mold concerns in schools:

  1. East Pennsboro school officials meet with parents over mold concerns
  2. Mold concerns at Largo’s Plato Academy have parents scared
  3. Parent voices concerns about mold issue at Englewood Elementary
  4. East Penn plans more school closures as mold cleanup costs deplete savings
  5. Mold problem at West Vigo High School serious
  6. Mold forces local school district to cancel classes
  7. Farmington school tackles possible mold problem

The issue of mold in schools is not a recent problem. In fact in 2012, CNN ran a special report, that explored the issue of mold in schools. They focused on a third-grader, Matthew Asselin, in Winsted, Connecticut who missed 53 days of school because he was getting sick from mold at his school.

Matthew suffered from lethargy, a persistent wet cough, respiratory infections, headaches, pneumonia, and eventually got so ill that he needed to be hospitalized. His parents suspected that his school was making him ill because he was energetic and healthy during the summer holidays, but soon after starting school again, he got sick.

The purpose of this article is to help you determine if mold and the indoor air quality of your child’s school is making them sick and what you can do.

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

Stats and Facts on Indoor Air Quality in Schools

According to CNN:

  1. It is estimated that one-third of schools have indoor air problems.
  2. The core cause of mold and subsequent indoor air quality issues is moisture. An easy fix you would think. However, it is not and the situation is getting worse because of budget cutbacks that make it difficult for schools to fix issues that cause moisture issues, like roof leaks.
  3. A national survey of school nurses found that 40% knew children and staff adversely affected by indoor pollutants.
  4. Indoor air affects more than health. A growing body of research suggests students also perform better in schools with healthier air.
  5. Asthma is the number one chronic illness that keeps kids out of school, and it’s growing
  6. About one in 10 children in the United States now has asthma, which causes them to miss an average of four days of school a year
  7. Even when children don’t miss school, the medications they take for asthma and conditions like rhinitis, an allergic reaction to mold or dust, can make it harder for them to do their best work.
  8. About 20% to 30% of people are susceptible to mold or dust, which triggers an allergic reaction. The resulting symptoms can include itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, headaches, fatigue, even memory problems and slowed thinking. It takes very little exposure once you’re sensitized to provoke symptoms and gets worse over time.
  9. Children are not the only ones affected by poor indoor air quality, teachers and staff also get sick.
  10. Home schooling is growing amongst parents that are concerned that the air quality of their child’s school is not healthy.

Is The School Making Your Child’s Asthma Worse?

Is The School Making Your Child's Asthma Worse?

Is The School Making Your Child’s Asthma Worse?

Last year, we explored the issue of mold and asthma. Highlighted below is information that pertains directly to the issue of mold and asthma with respect to children.

One of the most common health concerns for children is asthma.

One study based on a survey of more than 10,000 university students, cited that there was a strong correlation between mold and asthma.

Another study of 300 children found a strong correlation that three species of mold–Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus unguis and Penicillium variabile–caused asthma in children. The studies author went on to conclude that: “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.”

December, 2013 the New York City Housing Authority was forced to recognize mold as a health threat and specifically that one of the core causes of asthma was moisture and mold.

It would appear that more research is pointing to the fact that the prevalent and core cause of asthma in children is mold.

Research out of Taiwan, provides even more proof that mold causes asthma.

The researchers studied school children aged 6 to 15 years old in 44 schools and concluded that:

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.

Based on this conclusion, it is fairly clear that parents, teachers, school trustees, and the government needs to take the issue of mold in schools seriously. It is no longer a theory that poor air quality affects the health of school children, it is fairly clear that it does. It is also fair to conclude that the prevalent cause of childhood asthma is mold.

If we want to reduce the number of children with asthma, then the obvious solution is to address the issue of poor air quality in schools. Will this happen? I am hopeful, but in an age of constant government cutbacks and tight budgets, the likelihood of this happening is not very high. The driving force for change in schools will ultimately have to be the parents whose children are impacted by poor air quality.

As a parent, the only way you can determine if your child’s school is causing sickness is to monitor their health during the summer when they are away from school and monitor their health when they are in school.

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Back In School

How do I know if my child is getting sick at school from mold?

Some children are more sensitive than others. But watch out for symptoms that seem to appear only at school – for example, wheezing, hoarseness, cough, runny nose, acid reflux, digestive issues, headache and irritated eyes.

What should I do if my child is getting sick because of school?

Visit your children’s classrooms and other parts of their schools. Do you see or smell mold or mildew? Are there signs of water leaks on walls, around windows or on the ceiling?

Musty and earthy odors are always an indication that a mold problem is present. Dirty carpet and water damage might also mean there is mold and bad air quality. Mold grows where there’s moisture.

How do I know if it’s mold?

If you see fuzzy, slimy, or discolored surfaces — especially in damp or wet areas — it’s probably mold. Molds can be green, black, gray, purple or even orange.

What if I see a problem?

Alert your principal or a School Board member. A lot of times, it will take more than one call or e-mail to get a response. Although calls might be quicker, your letters will provide a paper trail. Also, be sure to log all your calls, letters and observations. Inform other parents of the problem.

How can I protect my child?

Educate yourself. Talk to school officials about what they’re doing to control humidity and how quickly they’re fixing leaky roofs and windows. Ask to see copies of investigative reports and work orders for repairs and mold removal. Finally, ensure that your child is maintaining a healthy diet so their immune system is strong.

Got Mold Questions?

If you are concerned about mold in your home or your child’s school, please don’t hesitate to call us, 678-697-6267 or send us an e-mail. Mold B Gone are experienced mold removal and detection specialists that have specialized training to work with mold sensitized individuals. Peace of mind is just a phone call away. We look forward to serving you! 🙂

Mold In Schools Infographic

Mold In Schools Infographic

Mold In Schools Infographic