Moulds, moisture and microbial contamination of First Nations housing in British Columbia, Canada.
This paper reviews the difficulties experienced with mould growth in First Nations homes in British Columbia and to describe the team approach used in dealing with this problem. Humid, damp conditions promote the growth of bacteria, moulds, and dust mites. These organisms contribute to poor air quality and causes serious health problems. There is increasing evidence indicating an association between mould, particularly toxigenic moulds, and some diseases, notably asthma. These health problems usually improve when families are relocated to more suitable accommodation. Those particularly at risk include atopic, immunocompromised, very young and elderly individuals and those with chronic health conditions. Our experience suggests that substandard housing is a major contributor to poor health in First Nations communities.
Lawrence
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Health Canada, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, 540-757 West Hastings, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 3E6, Canada.
Martin
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D
D016902:Air Pollution, Indoor; D001955:British Columbia; D005658:Fungi / Q000145:classification / Q000302:isolation & purification* / Q000472:pathogenicity; D006798:Housing; D006801:Humans; D006813:Humidity; D007198:Indians, North American; D018877:Sick Building Syndrome / Q000208:ethnology / Q000382:microbiology*