http://www.epa.gov/aging/press/othernews/2008/2008_0229_ons_4.htm (EPA link)

Increased Allergen Levels In Homes Linked to Asthma 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH NIH News
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)

“Results from a new national survey demonstrate that elevated allergen levels in the home are associated with asthma symptoms in allergic individuals. The study suggests that asthmatics that have allergies may alleviate symptoms by reducing allergen exposures inside their homes.”

"Indoor allergen exposures are of great importance in relation to asthma because most people spend a majority of their time indoors, especially at home,"

Indoor Exposures

EPA commissioned a National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine expert panel review of the scientific evidence on the relationships between indoor air pollution and asthma. The landmark report, Clearing the Air: Asthma and Indoor Exposures, released in 2000, guides much of the national effort to improve environments through various EPA programs. Several key findings include:

·         Indoor environment plays an important role in the increasing asthma problem.
 

·         Exposure to secondhand smoke, nitrogen dioxide, and indoor allergens - dust mites, animal dander, cockroaches, and mold - can make asthma symptoms worse.
 

·         Exposure to dust mites can cause asthma in susceptible individuals.
 

·         Exposure of pre-school aged children to environmental tobacco smoke can cause asthma.

You can download a sample Asthma Action Plan (PDF, 2 pp, 119KB About PDF) to help you work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan for your individual circumstances.

When you and your doctor make the plan, be sure to include:

• Your child’s asthma triggers.
• Instructions for asthma medicines.
• What to do if your child has an asthma attack.
• When to call your doctor.
• Emergency telephone numbers.

Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke is a mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe or cigar and the smoke exhaled by the smoker that is often found in homes and cars where smoking is allowed.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are too small to be seen, but can be found in almost every home in mattresses and bedding materials, carpets, upholstered furniture, stuffed toys and curtains.

Mold

Mold can grow indoors when mold spores land on wet or damp surfaces. In the home, mold is most commonly found in the bathroom, kitchen and basement.

Cockroaches and other Pests

Cockroach body parts, secretions and droppings, and the urine, droppings and saliva of pests, such as rodents, are often found in areas where food and water are present.

Warm-Blooded Pets (such as cats and dogs)

Pets' skin flakes, urine and saliva can be found in homes where pets are allowed inside.

Nitrogen Dioxide

Nitrogen Dioxide is an odorless gas that can be a byproduct of indoor fuel-burning appliances, such as gas stoves, gas or oil furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves and unvented kerosene or gas space heaters.

Join today and become a member of the Communities in Action for Asthma-Friendly Environments Online Network to access cutting-edge tools that facilitate collaboration, problem solving, and learning between leaders of asthma programs.  The Online Network is a year-round resource for mentoring and collaboration designed to support your asthma management program.

·         Learn more about and join the Online Community Network at www.asthmacommunitynetwork.org

“Indoor air pollution can affect you at home, work, or even places you visit. It is a common source of respiratory diseases, including asthma, allergies, and lung cancer.”