I have recently read on the website (www.cdc.gov/nceh/asthma/factsheets/molds/default.htm) of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) that Stachybotrys is not dangerous and that it poses no unique health and abatement risks. Is this true? Anon, USA

The Centers for Disease Control which conducted the original epidemiological investigations on pulmonary lung hemorrhaging (hemesiderosis) in Cleveland and Chicago more than a half decade ago has after both an internal and external review of studies of their staff and others has recently concluded that a causal association between Stachybotrys exposures and hemesiderosis in infants is unproven. The CDC report indicates that reported associations were based on poorly designed and executed investigations and are not consistent with the scientific literature.

The CDC has gone considerably beyond these conclusions on its website which is designed to respond to homeowner concerns. CDC advises that it is not necessary to determine the type of mold growing in your home since all molds should pose identical health risks on exposure.

The CDC review of the relationship between hemesiderosis and potential Stachybotrys exposures is for the most part based on good science. The evidence for such an association has never been very strong. However, the CDC review, as the research it criticizes, is also flawed as it failed to seriously consider animal exposure data which show pulmonary hemorrhaging in animals exposed to Stachybotrys spores and a recent study which reported Stachybotrys spores in the lungs of an infant with hemesiderosis.

The potential relationship between Stachybotrys and lung disease in infants has been subject to considerable controversy both within and outside the CDC. Staff who conducted the original investigations and feel strongly that a causal connection exists have left CDC feeling that CDC is not adequately protecting the public’s health.

Where does this leave home and other building owners who have "black mold" infestations problems in their buildings? The CDC website advises that Stachybotrys is no different from other mold species in terms of its health-affecting potential and by implication indicate that no special precautions are required in its abatement.

Stachybotrys and other mold species produce potent mycotoxins whose potential adverse effects on humans as a result of inhalation exposures are largely unknown. As such, one cannot consider toxigenic fungi as just any other mold. Disturbing mold-infested materials without using personal protective equipment and work practices which limit building contamination is an inherently foolhardy activity.

It would be imprudent to be a human guinea pig. Treat Stachybotrys and other heavy mold infestations with respect. There is no science to support CDC’s statement that all molds are the same with respect to potential health risks and removal practices needed.