Mold and Our Community

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Over the years and even more recently mold growth in work places, schools and even our homes has become a major problem for local and government agencies. Toxic molds are being blamed more often than not on a wide variety of human ailments as well as disabilities. Toxic types of molds have become a topic for discussion in the lay press and litigation are more common when building tenants or occupants believe they have been affected by the presents of mold. The (ACOEM) American College of Occupational and Environmental has shown evidence based on scientific research linking fungal and mold to related illnesses. The research has raised major concerns and discussion surrounding the presents of indoor molds.

Fungi or fungus are typically known as unicellular, multicellular or eukaryotic organism in that because they lack beneficial chlorophyll and or require an external food source. Fungi are everywhere in all parts of our environments. Fungi play an important role in the digestion or decomposing of organic matter. The human body serves as a host to many different species of fungi or mold. To isolate yourself from molds is almost impossible without the use of stringent air filtration strict isolation as well as environment sanitation of the highest levels. The fact is that it’s just not logical.

Unfortunately, fungus and molds will have an adverse effect on the health of humans through three processes that are as follows a) allergy b) infections and c) toxicity. Allergy is the more common of the three to affect humans in the form of asthma or hay fever especially in small children.

Fortunately, most fungi or molds are not pathogenic to the healthy human body. There are of course more common types of fungus that may cause infections to the human foot, groin area and or finger or toe nails. In some cases fungi such as Blastomyces, Histoplasma and Cryptococcus will infect persons with compromised immune systems such as cancer and AIDS patients.

Some species of mold of fungi are known to have valuable secondary clinical uses for penicillin, veterinary and human mycotoxicoses have been documented. Scientist in the agriculture field are studying the inhalation exposure of concentrations of farm dust that contain bacteria and fungi. This type of exposure has been contributed to the disorder called organic dust toxic syndrome. In addition, researchers have not found any scientific proof that support the proposition that inhaled mycotoxins inhaled in homes and schools adversely affect the human body.

We should all agree that fungi and mold alike are all important aspects of our life. We cannot eliminate them nor do we want to in most cases. Understanding fungi and how they potentially affect us and the environment are topics that will be discussed for many years to come. Check back to this web site for more articles on fungi and mold.

By: Bradley Skierkowski