Abstract
Adverse health effects due to indoor air moisture damage has been extensively studied already for thirty years. Expose to dampness microbiota (DM) in buildings is a risk factor for newly onset asthma and other respiratory problems. This exposure increases the rate of upper and lower respiratory tract infections because the function of the cilia cells and the integrity of mucosal layer becomes compromised. The breach of the first defense barrier of innate immunity leads to susceptibility to inhaled impurities and pathogens. Dampness and mould-associated asthma may present with several clinical peculiarities. This asthma may be resistant to treatment, the symptoms may exacerbate during periods with increased outdoor air humidity and rainfalls and this asthma may be associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has been generally recognized that persons sensitized to DM should avoid new and repeated exposure to moldy environment. This recommendation is important especially during the current SARS-CoV2 pandemic.
Highlights
Moisture damage is a common problem worldwide
According to WHO (2009), the exposure to dampness microbiota (DM) and decay products of the damaged building may result in respiratory symptoms
Mehtods and Results Here, we refer to a few selected literature reviews and meta-analyses supporting the previous knowledge that the exposure to the components of moisture damage causes a plethora of respiratory problems, and aggravation of existing asthma or its exacerbation
Summary
Moisture damage is a common problem worldwide. For example, in Finland, moisture damage occurs in at least 25% of school buildings, and these problems are known to occur in individual houses, etc. It has become indisputable already since the report of the WHO that the exposure to DM is associated with higher risks for upper and lower respiratory tract infections [2]. 2. Mehtods and Results Here, we refer to a few selected literature reviews and meta-analyses (one per year after 2009) supporting the previous knowledge that the exposure to the components of moisture damage causes a plethora of respiratory problems, and aggravation of existing asthma or its exacerbation.
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