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By Nancy B. Solomon, AIA

The committee is careful to state that it found neither “sufficient evidence for a causal relationship” nor “limited or suggestive evidence of no association for the various illnesses considered.” In other words, more comprehensive studies must be undertaken to make a final determination one way or the other. The authors also stress that the “conclusions are not applicable to persons with compromised immune systems, who are at risk for fungal colonization and opportunistic infections.”

 

Hygrothermal map Drawings: Courtesy Joseph lstiburek/Building Science Corporation

Although the jury is still out as to the degree to which mold causes health problems in otherwise healthy people, the committee stated that excessive indoor dampness—which is conducive not just to mold but also to bacteria, dust mites, cockroaches, and other larger organisms, and to chemical and particle emissions from building materials (all of which may have medical repercussions)—does pose a risk to public health. The authors emphasize the importance of educating building professionals on the causes and prevention of moisture problems.

So while there may be some relief to building professionals that, at least for now, there may not be sufficient evidence to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that mold causes fatigue, cancer, or several other extremely serious maladies, mold growth must still be inhibited for the general health of occupants; to avoid the unpleasant conditions associated with it, such as odors and staining; and to maintain the structural integrity of furnishings and building materials.