Awareness is key
At least 25% of human beings are susceptible to toxin exposure and related illnesses, which include respiratory distress, autoimmune diseases, mental illness, and even cancers. There is some indication that the numbers affected might be even higher.
A major public building in Florida, that has been closed down due to mold infestion, has found at least 50% of the occupants reporting symptoms related to mold toxin exposure. Find out more about the Pensacola Judicial Building mold challenges here.
The statistics
If the numbers are correct, 25% of Americans equates to upwards of 80 million people who may be affected by mold. That’s lots of men, women and children! Perhaps that number includes you or someone you love. Awareness is the first step toward solutions. Look for links to more articles to come, and join me in increasing awareness and education on this very significant issue of our time.
Listen to a podcast on the topic of “Brain on Fire – The Role of Toxic Mold in Triggering Psychiatric Symptoms” by Dr. Mary Ackerley.
Mold causes inflammation in the body. Another well respected doctor, Dr. Kelly Brogan, connects the dots between inflammation and mental illness.
Her article “From Gut to Brain: The Inflammation Connection” can be found through this link. CLICK HERE
What to do if you think MOLD might be affecting you or your family?
Hire or consult with a well-educated architect to ensure you have a healthy building! For professionals – be well-educated, and make a difference beyond the environment!
The sustainability movement is a great thing. Unfortunately, the well-intentioned, the quest for improved energy efficiency has led to very tight buildings with air quality challenges due to water damage, mold and off-gassing of VOCs. A new challenge is emerging which is an unintended consequence of the sustainability movement. That problem is serious, often chronic health issues as a result of water damage that cannot dry out like it once could in a drafty building. The answer is NOT to build drafty buildings, but our new technologies, materials and sustainability goals require the building profession to re-examine materials, methods, priorities, and solutions.
How an architect can help
Well-educated architects are uniquely positioned to orchestrate solutions and bring together teams that take into account the complex building design, science, materials, mechanical systems, construction detailing and coordination to find success. There are no simple solutions, but continued education is critical.
Licensed architects in most states are required to complete continuing education courses of up to 12 hours per year to maintain their licenses. Those architects who will are most successful in tackling water damage issues are the professionals and individuals who never accept that they know everything and find the myths in what is often considered common knowledge.
Check out Cheryl’s podcast interview with the Weston A. Price Foundation for more information.
Get your questions answered!
Cheryl Ciecko, AIA, ALA, LEED AP, is a licensed architect who helps homeowners and building professionals create safe homes through online education to prevent mold, water damage, and poor indoor air quality. You can find her video masterclasses, online programs, and education subscription options at https://avoidingmold.com/education .
For detailed answers on your specific situation or building project, schedule your appointment for an individual consultation.
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REQUIRED DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this presentation is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, treat, or cure any disease, ailment or injury to the body. It is not medical advice. FDA regulations prohibit the use of medical claims in conjunction with the sale of any product not approved by the FDA. Statements made herein have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Any products, techniques, and/or personal usage tips referred to are not suggested as a replacement for proper treatment from a licensed health care professional. I am not a licensed health care professional and the decision to use or not to use any of this information is the sole responsibility of the listener and/or reader. Everyone is an individual with different body types, different blood types, different body chemistries, and it is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another person.