From the Guidelines
Dampness is a significant medical concern as it can lead to the growth of mold and fungi, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis 1.
Key Factors
- Moisture control is essential to prevent the growth of mold and fungi, and this can be achieved by reducing humidity levels, fixing water leaks, and improving ventilation 1.
- Indoor humidity should be maintained between 35% and 50% to prevent the growth of dust mites and mold, and to reduce the risk of respiratory problems 1.
- Dampness can also lead to the growth of mold on surfaces, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, and can be reduced by using a dehumidifier and removing standing water 1.
Health Implications
- Respiratory problems, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, can be exacerbated by exposure to mold and fungi, and can be reduced by controlling dampness and improving indoor air quality 1.
- Cardiovascular disease can also be affected by dampness, as cold and damp housing can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly 1.
Prevention and Remediation
- Retrofitting insulation and improving heating systems can help to reduce dampness and improve indoor air quality, and can have significant health benefits, particularly for vulnerable populations 1.
- Regular maintenance of buildings, including fixing water leaks and improving ventilation, can help to prevent dampness and reduce the risk of mold growth 1.
From the Research
Medical Significance of Dampness
The medical significance of dampness is a well-researched topic, with numerous studies investigating its effects on human health. Some of the key findings include:
- Associations between indoor dampness or mold and respiratory or allergic health effects, such as asthma development and exacerbation, dyspnea, wheeze, cough, respiratory infections, bronchitis, allergic rhinitis, eczema, and upper respiratory tract symptoms 2
- Evidence suggesting causation of asthma exacerbation in children, with suggestive evidence available for a few specific measured microbiologic factors 2
- Estimations that approximately 4.6 million cases of asthma in the USA are attributable to dampness and mold exposure in the home, resulting in a national annual cost of $3.5 billion 3
- Associations between dampness, mould, and mould odour at home and at work, and the onset and remission of respiratory symptoms, asthma, and rhinitis among adults 4
- Independent relationships between dampness at home and respiratory conditions, including chronic rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, current asthma, wheeze, nocturnal dyspnoea, nocturnal coughing, and chronic bronchitis 5
- Meta-analyses suggesting that dampness and mold in schools are associated with adverse respiratory health effects, including cough and wheeze 6
Health Effects of Dampness
The health effects of dampness are numerous and can be categorized into several areas, including:
- Respiratory health effects, such as asthma, cough, wheeze, and respiratory infections
- Allergic health effects, such as allergic rhinitis and eczema
- Other health effects, such as bronchitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and nocturnal dyspnoea
- Economic impacts, including the cost of asthma and other respiratory conditions
Prevention and Remediation
Prevention and remediation of indoor dampness and mold are crucial to reducing health risks. This can be achieved through:
- Controlling moisture in buildings, including new and existing construction
- Improving building standards to prevent dampness and mold
- Implementing public policies and programs to help control moisture and mold in buildings 3
- Reducing exposure to dampness and mold in homes, schools, and workplaces 2, 4, 5, 6