Link between moulds and asthma strong
30 August 2002
Moulds may play a bigger role than previously recognised in the severity of asthma, an international study shows.
Skin prick test results from 1132 people with asthma in Australia, Europe and the US showed that those sensitised to moulds were up to 3 times more likely to have severe asthma (BMJ 2002;325:411).
There was no association between severity of asthma and sensitisation to pollens or cats, but there was a positive association between asthma severity and sensitisation to house dust mite.
"This study tells us that people who are allergic to moulds have more severe asthma, and that's consistent right around the world," said Associate Professor Michael Abramson, from Monash University's department of epidemiology and preventive medicine, which participated in the study.
The researchers looked at the proportion of participants with asthma sensitised to 2 moulds, Alternaria alternate and Cladosporium herbarum.
In Australia and New Zealand, about 4 to 10 per cent of people with asthma are sensitised to these 2 moulds, which may be related to more severe asthma in Australia, said Professor Abramson.
How to avoid moulds
- Scrub bathroom crevices with bleach products.
- Reduce humidity using exhaust fans or portable dehumidifiers.
- Do not dry clothing indoors.
- Empty kitchen garbage bins regularly.
Last Reviewed: 30 August 2002
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 30/8/02
