Environmental Facts
American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAA)
Indoor levels of pollutants may be two to five times higher than outside levels, and occasionally peak at 100 times or higher than outside levels. High levels of pollutants may increase the risk of bronchial irritation, allergic sensitization, acute and chronic respiratory problems, as well as other subtle neurological and behavioral effects.
Outdoor Mold Spore Counts Are Often Higher Indoors
This fact is not surprising. Indoor fungi are simply fungi that have located a food source indoors. All indoor fungi are also present outdoors. Obviously some kinds of fungi can become greatly amplified indoors. Wet wallboard becomes affected with Aspergillus and Penicillium species so that spore concentrations in homes can be higher than even those outdoors.
Mold growth can be found on:
Wood
Plaster
Drywall
Glue
Fiberglass
Paper products
Concrete
Study Finds Link Between Mold And Depression
A groundbreaking public health study has found a connection between damp, moldy homes and depression. The study, led by Brown University Epidemiologist Edmond Shenassa, was the largest investigation of an association between mold and mood, and is the first investigation conducted outside of the United Kingdom.
Asbestos fibers can be found in:
Steam pipes, boilers, and furnace ducts
Resilient floor tiles, vinyl sheet flooring, and adhesives
Cement sheets, mill board, and furnace paper
Furnace and wood stove door gaskets
Soundproofing or decorative material sprayed on walls and ceilings
Joint compounds and textured paints
Cement roofing, shingles, and siding
Artificial ashes and embers sold for use in gas-fired fireplaces Fireproof gloves, stove-top pads, ironing board covers
Automobile brake pads and linings, clutch facings, and gaskets
Asbestos Is a Carcinogen!
Asbestos is a carcinogen, and exposure can result in serious or fatal respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos was commonly used in thermal insulation, floor tiles, joint compound and mastic, outdoor shingles, and other building materials. When asbestos containing materials become damaged or disturbed, the fibers separate and become airborne and inhaled into the lungs. These fibers can only be identified by PLM microscopy in a certified, licensed laboratory.
Minimizing Your Exposure To Environmental Surface Toxins
Believe it or not, good personal hygiene (especially regular hand washing) is an important strategy for minimizing the spread of surface toxins and poisons. Good housekeeping and cleaning practices will keep levels of bacteria, mold, and viruses low in our homes and work places.
Lead dust can be found in:
Paint
In the soil and household dust around a home with lead paint
Drinking water (from lead-based solder on water pipes)
Old toy and furniture paint
Lead-crystal and lead-glazed pottery and porcelain
Old medicinal folk remedies
