New EPA Mold Study addresses the impact of mold exposure on health.

The EPA has recently released the results of a four year study on mold and health. Released under the title: Guidance for Clinicians on the Recognition and Management of Health Effects related to Mold Exposure and Moisture Indoors," the study was published by the Center for Indoor Environments and Health at UConn Health Center. The study was supported by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA.)Though the study stops short of suggesting definitively that exposure to mold can cause health effects, it presents data indicating the relationship between mold exposure and increases in asthma in children and respiratory ailments in the elderly and individuals with suppressed immune systems. The study also finds correlative evidence in cases where adults with no previous history of respiratory ailment have developed asthma after prolonged exposure to certain molds.

Of particular importance to those in the indoor air quality and mold inspection industries, the study provides guidelines for mold investigations. Though the guidelines are not presented as a handbook or step-by-step guide, they do provide support for the protocols used in MoldTech® Mold Inspection Software.
Though the study will help to increase awareness of mold as a health concern, it is important that mold inspectors not attempt to use it as a diagnostic tool in their interactions with clients. When clients seek medical diagnoses and advice, it is essential, for the sake of the client's health and to reduce their exposure to liability, that mold inspectors refer clients to qualified medical professionals.

The study can be found at online at:
http://oehc.uchc.edu/clinser/MOLD%20GUIDE.pd

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