Association between Dampness in Buildings and Health - Essay Example

But hospitalisation can cure the problem, not the cause. Hence dampness is not a problem but the root cause of many unwanted medical conditions. For years there was uncertainty and contradiction over whether there is enough scientific evidence to claim the toll dampness takes on people's health. Recent research like the one cited above has shown enough scientific evidence to prove the hazards of damp homes on the health of their occupiers. According to Bornehag et.al. "There is good evidence for a true association between dampness in buildings and health." (para.2) This statement made by a group of eight scientists after they studied the effects of dampness is enough to prove the relevance of the abovementioned health effects.

However, Bornehag et al. provide arguments to both sides of the posed question by pointing out, "Several epidemiological investigations concerning indoor environments have indicated that "dampness" in buildings is associated with health effects such as respiratory symptoms, asthma and allergy. It is concluded that the evidence for a causal association between "dampness" and health effects is substantial. However, the mechanisms are unknown. Several definitions of dampness have been used in the studies, but all seem to be associated with health problems.

Sensitisation to mites may be one but not the only mechanism. Even if the tools are unknown, there is sufficient evidence to take preventive measures against dampness in buildings." (para 1.) Considering this viewpoint, we can conclude that though experts point towards some links between moisture and ill health, until now, the scientific evidence is not entirely conclusive enough towards the health hazards posed by water. Since dampness lowers the temperature than expected in homes that are not damp, medical complications seem to attack the occupiers.

In a study conducted to determine the medical conditions related to cold and damp housing by Walsall Health Authority and MEB/npower, it has been found that cardiovascular diseases, home accidents due to lowering down of the rate of body sensation, heart attacks, strokes and respiratory problems etc. are linked to cold and damp homes. In their fuel poverty and ill health review, the evidence of physical and mental ill health related to dampness has been presented excitingly. According to the study, “ ‘fuel poor’ households typically respond to ‘hard to heat’ housing in two ways: 
1. They cut back on fuel use to try and maintain manageable fuel bills. This leads to cold homes, damps, and/or mould growth – key determinants of poor health.
2. They run up high fuel bills to try and maintain adequate levels of warmth. This contributes to general indebtedness or the need to cut back on other essential items such as food and clothing. This can also have health consequences, for example, depression.” (para.13)

In the context of the relationship between dampness and health effects, Bornehag et al. point out, “As the causative factors behind this association are not known, the main focus in practical investigations should be on finding out and remediate the reasons for the humidity problem.”(para.2) Therefore, looking at both sides of the argument and going by what experts say, it can be stated that the scientists believe that the scientific evidence is not yet wholly conclusive. It will need more time and research to make this issue more convincing. Further studies would help throw more light on this issue and would assist in identifying the extent to which dampness affects people in a more detailed way as a connection between ill health and water is recognized. Still, the scientific evidence is not conclusive enough to firmly make a statement.