Poor indoor air quality 'increases risk of respiratory problems'

Those who live in damp or mouldy buildings have up to 75 per cent more chance of suffering respiratory problems and asthma, according to a new book on indoor air quality.

The report, published by the World Health Organization (WHO), is the first in a series of WHO guidelines on indoor air quality.

Dr Srdan Matic, the unit head of noncommunicable diseases and environment at the WHO regional office for Europe, where the research was commissioned, said the quality of indoor air was crucial for people's health and wellbeing given the amount of time they spend in homes, offices and other buildings.

"For the first time, these guidelines offer guidance to public health and other authorities on how to ensure safety and healthy conditions in buildings," he said.

WHO guidelines on indoor air quality are recommendations based on scientific evidence which may be used for building design and maintenance purposes or in creating environmental legislation at a national or international level.

Written by Clare Manning