Abstract
Introduction: In coastal Australia, Der p l concentrations in homes are very high. In this study we report the relation between characteristics of the home environment and Der p l concentrations at different sites in Sydney homes. Methods: A total of 616 families were recruited and information about the structure of the home and environmental factors was collected by questionnaire. Samples of dust were collected from beds and floors and assayed for Der p 1. Results: Geometric mean concentrations of Der p 1 were 14.3 ng/g in beds, 12.5 jig/g on bedroom floors and 9.4 |ig/g on living room floors. A total of 68% of beds, 65% of bedroom floors and 56% of living room floors had Der p 1 concentrations above 10(lg/g. The table shows odds ratios for the most significant predictors. Characteristic Beds Bedroom floors %> 10years OR P value % 10ug/g OR P value Home age 10years 75.4 2.3 0.0001 69.9 1.5 0.031 Freestanding home 70.7 1.8 0.009 66.1 1.1 0.729 Wooden foundation 76.2 2.2 0.0001 68.9 1.3 0.116 Visible mould 83.0 2.4 0.02 68.6 1.2 0.758 Mattress age >2 years 70.8 1.8 0.004 Carpeted floor 71.7 5.8 0.0001 Older homes had high concentrations of Der p l for both beds and floors. Other predictors included mattress age and carpeted flooring. Visible mould was a significant predictor of high Der p l concentrations in beds but not floors. We observed no relationship between Der p l concentrations and indoor and outdoor humidity and temperature in either the beds or floors of the homes. Conclusion: To reduce allergen exposure we would encourage the regular replacement of mattresses and the removal of carpets, especially in older houses.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | A49 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Journal | Respirology |
| Volume | 6 |
| Issue number | SUPPL. 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2001 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Der p 1
- House dust mite
- Housing characteristics
- Indoor allergen