With most Americans spending about 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality (IAQ) has become an increasing concern. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates that pollution levels indoors may be 2-5 times higher and occasionally 100 times higher than outdoors. Indoor air pollution sources range from combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene, or wood to building materials (pressed wood, asbestos containing insulation, and carpeting) to cleaning products and outdoor sources such as radon, pesticides and outdoor burning.

 

Mold and moisture can also become a problem in buildings when excessive moisture accumulates or if a moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.

 

The effects of poor indoor air quality on people can be immediate or more long term in nature.  Symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, nausea, asthma, and / or sleep disturbance.  Sensitive populations such as the elderly and children are especially vulnerable to poor indoor air quality. Children breathe in more air in proportion to their body size and are adversely affected by environmental contaminants due to their rapidly developing body systems.

 

Studies show that asthma is the most common chronic disease among children today. Childhood asthma is also a leading contributor to school absences and visits to the emergency rooms. Through education and increased awareness, asthma triggers can be identified and reduced so children and adults with asthma can breathe easier.

 

Union County Children’s Environmental Health offers educational materials, recommendations and referrals to community resources.