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Quality of indoor residential air and health
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 10:31 authored by Dales, R, Liu, L, Amanda WheelerAmanda Wheeler, Gilbert, NLAbout 90% of our time is spent indoors where we are exposed to chemical and biological contaminants and possibly to carcinogens. These agents may influence the risk of developing nonspecific respiratory and neurologic symptoms, allergies, asthma and lung cancer. We review the sources, health effects and control strategies for several of these agents. There are conflicting data about indoor allergens. Early exposure may increase or may decrease the risk of future sensitization. Reports of indoor moulds or dampness or both are consistently associated with increased respiratory symptoms but causality has not been established. After cigarette smoking, exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and radon are the most common causes of lung cancer. Homeowners can improve the air quality in their homes, often with relatively simple measures, which should provide health benefits.
History
Publication title
CMAJ: (Canadian Medical Association Journal)Volume
179Pagination
147-152ISSN
0820-3946Department/School
Menzies Institute for Medical ResearchPublisher
Canadian Medical AssociationPlace of publication
1867 Alta Vista Dr, Ottawa, Canada, Ontario, K1G 3Y6Rights statement
Copyright 2008 Canadian Medical Association or its licensorsRepository Status
- Restricted