Mold is a fungus growth, which begins with a minute spore.

Toxic black molds can be found anywhere a dark and damp environment allows them to grow. Spores can be breathed in, absorbed through the skin or ingested on our food.

Young children, senior citizens and anyone with immune deficiencies caused by disease, chemotherapy, etc are particularly vulnerable to grave illness following exposure to microbial contamination.

HEALTH EFFECTS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO LESSEN THEM

Laboratory studies in animals and at the cellular level offer supporting data for the direct toxicity of fungal spores and mycotoxins in mammalian lungs (University of Connecticut Health Center Report in 2004). A health study by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health links adult-onset asthma to workplace mold exposure. And in 1997, the Centers for Disease Control announced an apparent link between mold contamination in homes and cases of infant pulmonary hemorrhage.

Other common effects from molds are pneumonitis, upper respiratory problems, sinusitis, dry cough, skin rashes, stomach upset, headaches, disorientation and bloody noses. Severe exposure can lead to internal bleeding, kidney and liver failure and pulmonary emphysema.

There are numerous reasons for the rising occurrence of mold and mildew in our homes, one of which is the federal regulations pertaining to energy conservation call for new construction methods and materials, meaning that homes don’t “breathe” as freely as before, trapping moisture vapors inside the building. As a result, mold remediation and prevention have become hot topics in both the health and building industries.

What are we supposed to believe and what should our next move be to defend our families, and ourselves with all the media exposure to toxic mold in the last year or so? First, we must take this threat seriously. If you see mold in your home, get it tested as soon as you can. Get your home tested if you have a family member with an unexplained illness, respiratory irritation, rash, etc that seems to get better when they are away from home.

Controlling Mold Growth and Exposure

• The way to control indoor mold growth is to limit dampness, there is no realistic way to get rid of absolutely all mold and spores from the indoor environment
• There are air purifiers and cleaners on the market that claim to help lessen quantities of mold spores in the air, do your homework, these might also be of help
• Reduce indoor humidity to prevent mold growth by: using air-conditioners and de-humidifiers, and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, cleaning and dishwashing
• Clean and dry any wet or damp building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth
• Use water and detergent to clean mold off hard surfaces, and dry completely
• Do not install carpeting where there is a continuous moisture problem
• Remedy as soon as possible, any moisture or leakage problems in your home