61 International Studies Link Moldy Homes to Asthma & Allergies

EMSL Analytical provides ERMI do it yourself mold test kits to help identify fungal hazards in the home.

Cinnaminson, NJ

Last week, Reuters Health reported on the link between homes with visible mold and children’s asthma and allergies. The article, “Moldy home tied to kids’ asthma, allergies” reported that “Researchers found that across 61 international studies since the 1990s, children living in water-damaged, moldy homes were more likely to have asthma, wheezing problems or nasal allergies than their peers.”

Researchers from the German Research Center for Environmental Health in Neuherberg found that it was 49% more likely that children would have asthma if they lived in homes with visible mold. For children living in these homes it was also 39% more likely that they would have nasal allergies.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s largest indoor air quality (IAQ) testing laboratories, was one of the first laboratories to offer a mold test kit utilizing technologies developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) test identifies 36 mold species. These are then compared to the EPA’s national database of homes to provide an easy to understand report showing how a property’s level of fungal contamination ranks.

“This latest research once again shows the link between moldy homes and elevated fungal levels to allergies and asthma in our children,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “The test is easy to conduct by simply collecting a dust sample from the home. The sample is then analyzed using advanced DNA testing methods for specific mold types often found in homes with water damage or elevated humidity, resulting in mold growth. This testing method is a great way for parents to ensure their home is safe from high levels of fungi,” he continued.

EMSL has developed an instructional video on ERMI sampling, it can be seen at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o81WCv3hJQ8

To learn more about mold, ERMI, IAQ or other environmental testing services please visit www.moldinspectionkit.com or www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of quality environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail