A new long-term study has found that exposure to indoor mold during early childhood may be associated with measurably reduced lung function later in life. The research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that mold in homes and schools poses risks beyond acute allergic reactions, potentially shaping respiratory health trajectories that persist for years.
The findings are particularly relevant for families in water-damaged buildings, where mold growth can remain hidden behind walls and under flooring for extended periods. Children's developing immune and respiratory systems may be especially vulnerable to the inflammatory effects of mycotoxin and mold spore exposure.