ScienceNews published an article last year about the spread of three types of fungi that can cause serious lung diseases. One of these was Histoplasma which causes histoplasmosis, an infection once mainly found in the Midwest, but in more recent times infections have been recorded in at least 47 states., , , , Histoplasma capsulatum lives in the environment, particularly in soil or other materials that contain large amounts of bird droppings or bat guano. The Centers for Disease Control.
Aspergillosis is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by a fungal pathogen known as Aspergillus. It is a common type of mold found outdoors and in indoor environments. It can be found at excessive concentrations indoors when buildings suffer water damage or elevated humidity levels., , , , Fortunately, most healthy people breathe Aspergillus spores without infection concerns. However, some species are known to be a serious infection risk for individuals with comorbidities such.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a diverse group of chemicals that have a high vapor pressure and low water solubility. These chemicals can be found in numerous products and materials used to build, furnish, clean, and maintain homes and buildings. They can also be found in a number of personal care products and consumer goods where they can become airborne pollutants., , , , Exposure to elevated levels of VOCs can cause health concerns. Unfortunately, concentrations of many VOCs are con.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classified formaldehyde as a probable human carcinogen as far back as 1987. In 2011, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) determined that formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen based on sufficient human and animal inhalation studies. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) also classifies formaldehyde as a human carcinogen., , , , Formaldehyde is a chemical that is widely used by industry to manufacture buildin.
Each year, Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month is recognized in January. Both the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) report that cancer is a leading cause of death among firefighters. The agencies also state that research suggests firefighters are at a higher risk of certain types of cancers when compared to the general population., , , , NIOSH warns that firefighters can be exposed to hundreds of different chemicals in the form of ga.