The threat of mold exposure looms over your head — literally.
From your attic and air vents to beneath your carpet or between your tile grout, mold can grow just about anywhere in your house, meaning you may feel concerned from top to bottom.
And though you know it is not healthy to let mold linger, you may ultimately be wondering: Can mold cause cancer?
Considering the (Potential) Carcinogens
Put simply, mold is not likely to cause cancer, albeit it is not impossible.
“Two mold-produced toxins (aflatoxins and ochratoxin A) have been classified by the National
Toxicology Program as human carcinogens,” as recorded by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).”Chronic ingestion of these toxins from eating contaminated foods has been associated with liver and kidney tumors in animals and people.”
In short, people often have to consistently eat foods that are contaminated with these toxins in order to develop cancer. Experiencing such a condition from airborne mold spores is not likely.
That being said, inhaling mold toxins is still hazardous to your health, and you should remain diligent in taking the necessary precautions to avoid exposure.
Seen Any Spores?
If you haven’t identified any visible mold within your property, take a moment to check in with your body.
“If you have a mold allergy, your immune system overreacts when you breathe in mold spores,” Mayo Clinic explains. “A mold allergy can cause coughing, itchy eyes and other symptoms that make you miserable. In some people, a mold allergy is linked to asthma and exposure causes restricted breathing and other airway symptoms.”
Thus, if you’ve experienced consistent respiratory symptoms while in your own home, you likely have mold growth hidden within the deeper recesses of the property.
Other physical indications of mold growth include:
- A musty or mildewy smell
- Increased indoor humidity
- Water stains
- And more
Stay Calm and Call the Professionals
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present.”
The problems? Knowing…
- Where it is present
- The source of the mold growth
- The severity of the case
- And more
Thankfully, Luce Air Quality — your local expert indoor environmentalists — can provide you with a powerful combination of rapid results and reliable recommendations!
Our team is committed to helping you breathe a healthy sigh of relief by performing unparalleled mold investigations. To learn more or schedule your appointment, contact us today by calling 904-803-1014!