Changes in indoor allergen and fungal levels predict changes in asthma activity among young adults

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Exposures to allergens are thought to be important risk factors for asthma. We conducted a longitudinal study of indoor allergen and fungal levels in Melbourne homes between 1996 and 1998 to examine the effect of changes in allergen exposure upon asthma and associated outcomes. METHODS: Participants were visited at home in 1996 (n=485) and 1998 (n=360), when dust and air samples were collected from their bedrooms and assayed for Der p 1, Fel d 1, ergosterol and fungal propagules. Subjects then attended the lung function laboratory to complete a questionnaire, spirometry, methacholine challenge and skin prick testing. The associations between the change in allergen levels and chan..