Expert Panel Reports on Health Effects of Indoor Mold
Reviewing the existing scientific literature, a panel of experts in the fields of mycology, industrial hygiene, immunology and toxicology has reported that mold can cause allergic reactions in sensitized individuals but there is scant evidence that it is linked to many other health problems.

The panel was convened by NAHB to help association members sort through the complex and often conflicting information on the health effects of mold. The panel was also asked to identify future research that may help determine the links between indoor molds and their related health effects.

To read the panel’s report, click here, and go to PDFs on “Scientific Literature Review of Mold.”

While various studies on humans have attempted to link molds to a variety of non-specific health problems — such as fatigue, nausea and depression — the panel found that those links are weak and there is no evidence of causation in this area.

The panel also found that there is little evidence to link inhalation of molds in offices, schools, hospitals and residences with any form of cancer.

The report includes an executive summary and a review of what the panelists consider to be the 100 most important documents on the health effects of indoor mold. [ return to top ]