SLYOU Magazine issue 4 | Page 77

According to this study, there is rising evidence which shows that mould growth in damp buildings is an important risk factor for childhood respiratory illness. In addition to respiratory problems, children may also experience neurological issues due to mould exposure. Andrew W. Campbell et al. (2004) reveal that exposure to toxic moulds can affect the neurological condition and behaviour of children. They conducted several tests showing the neurophysiological effects of mould exposure on children. They discovered that many of the children tested had abnormal brain readings due to conditions developed from mould exposure. Furthermore, a research article conducted by Ebere C. Anyanwu et al. (2003) shows that toxic moulds affect the nervous system in children who are chronically exposed. Common neurological symptoms are: • • • • • • • Headaches Fatigue Sleep disturbance Confusion Mood swings Nosebleeds Cough www.slyoumag.com | February - April 2020 According to this study, high levels of sensorimotor dysfunction and the related disorders in children means that toxic mould exposure should be regarded as a serious neurological health problem. The study also shows that children with toxic mould exposure develop agitation (sometimes misdiagnosed as hyperactivity) which causes them to perform poorly at school. Overall, the results indicate that children are neuro-physiologically vulnerable, especially those under the age of ten. SL-YOU | It’s All About Business 75