Current State of the Science: Health Effects and Indoor Environmental Quality
2007

Health Effects and Indoor Environmental Quality

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Mitchell Clifford S., Zhang Junfeng (Jim), Sigsgaard Torben, Jantunen Matti, Lioy Paul J., Samson Robert, Karol Meryl H.

Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Hypothesis

How do indoor environmental factors affect human health?

Conclusion

Indoor environments significantly impact occupant health through complex interactions between pollutants and building design.

Supporting Evidence

  • Indoor air quality has evolved from focusing on specific pollutants to understanding complex interactions.
  • Recent studies show that indoor air pollution can significantly affect health outcomes.
  • Vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, are particularly at risk from indoor pollutants.

Takeaway

The air inside buildings can be full of pollutants that affect our health, and how buildings are designed can make things better or worse.

Methodology

The article reviews recent advances in source characterization, exposure assessment, health effects, and intervention research related to indoor environments.

Limitations

The study highlights the need for more research on the interactions of multiple exposures and the risks to vulnerable populations.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1289/ehp.8987

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication