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SCOPE OF MOLD PROBLEM
"Molds are microscopic fungi that comprise 25% of the earth's biomass.
They can be found almost anywhere and can grow on virtually any organic
substance as long as moisture and oxygen are present. Molds can grow on
wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. Moisture encourages mold
growth. People who are allergic to mold or whose asthma is triggered by
mold usually react to the spores, the reproductive bodies for molds.
The process by which these spores are released into the air becomes
intensified when moldy material is damaged or disturbed. Sometimes mold
can produce a toxic substance called mycotoxins, which also can cause
illness in sensitive populations, especially those with substantial
exposures, such as agricultural workers. It is impossible to eliminate
all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold
growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture. Many types of
molds exist and they all have the potential to cause health effects.
Molds produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or asthma
attacks. Health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth
and to remedy/clean up any existing indoor mold growth. The range of
symptoms of overexposure to mold include cough, congestion, runny nose,
eye irritation, and asthma symptoms. As is true of all
environmentally-related illnesses, the sensitivity and vulnerability of
the person will dictate the level of response to any given
exposure."---American Nursing Association.
Airborne mold spores spread mold-based infectious mold-related diseases
like asthma, chronic sinusitis, and aspergilliosis.
Stachybotrys atra mold can cause nervous system symptoms, such
as personality changes, sleep disorders and memory loss. Currently,
there are no federal standards or recommendations, (e.g., OSHA, NIOSH,
EPA) for airborne concentrations of mold or mold spores.
Mold health
problems usually arise
from the
cumulative breathing in of airborne mold spores over
time in a moldy home, apartment, or workplace. Mold
Health Problems.
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