The Science of Mold and Cancer

Posted in Mold, on August 10, 2015

Are you wondering whether there's a link between mold and cancer? Perhaps there is.

Molds can potentially produce health effects besides affecting indoor air quality. They produce irritants, allergens, and in some instances, toxins that may produce reactions in people. The severity and types of symptoms depend partly on the kinds of mold present, the degree of exposure, the age of the person, and the existing allergies or sensitivities. Exposure to dangerous molds, for instance Stachybotrys could result in a range of serious symptoms and illnesses including chronic fatigue, chronic bronchitis, and possibly cancer. If you wish to know more about mold and cancer, check this out.

Black Mold and Cancer

Stachybotrys chartarum is a mold species that is highly toxic to people. It's frequently called black or toxic mold. The species typically grows hidden away in an area with unnoticed water issue because the mold needs an area to be extremely wet for numerous days before it can start growing. Researchers have proven that the mold strain produces demylenating mycotoxins. This implies that they can result in autoimmune disease. Under certain environmental and growth conditions, the fungi release deadly microscopic spores and various kinds of mycotoxins that can cause irreversible symptoms such as immunological and neurological damage. Some of the natural mycotoxins comprise a potent class called trichothecenes. These are some of the most deadly mycotoxins. Moreover, research has linked trichothecenes to cancer. Research further indicates that the deadly mycotoxins are potent inhibitors of RNA, DNA, and protein synthesis. Trichothecenes are 40 times more deadly during inhalation than oral ingestion in animal studies

Mold Toxins

Molds can generate toxic substances termed mycotoxins. While some cling to the surface, others exist within the spores. Researchers have identified over 200 mycotoxins from common molds and many remain unidentified. A number of molds that produce mycotoxins mostly exist in moisture-damaged buildings. Exposure pathways can include ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Unfortunately, it's impossible to establish the extent of health damage caused by airborne mycotoxins until it's too late. Therefore, it's important you don't expose yourself knowingly even for short periods in any area that has a moldy smell or has the appearance of mildew or mold.

Aspergillus and Liver Cancer

Aspergillus is a group of mold species found in different parts of the world. These molds are also the most common fungi type in the environment. If your home or environment has this mold type, the increased amount of spores can result in negative symptoms. The three major symptoms are infection, allergic, and toxic symptoms. Dangerous species of these molds include:

Aspergillus Flavus

The species emits aflatoxin, a carcinogenic mycotoxin. Aflatoxin frequently contaminates foods including nuts. Besides being a byproduct of molds, aflatoxin is a potent cancer-causing agent. Researchers have linked long-term aflatoxin exposure to increased prevalence of liver cancer. Of the identified aflatoxins (B1, G1, B2, B1, and G2), B1 is the most toxic, prevalent, and carcinogenic. Aspergillus commonly grows on crops: mostly peanuts, corn, and grains. Studies in various countries including China and Thailand reveal a positive link between the levels of aflatoxin in food and the incidence of liver cancer. According to further research, aflatoxin is responsible for up to 28% of liver cases globally. Research has linked aflatoxin to carcinogenicity and toxicity in animal and human populations. The consumption of the carcinogenic mycotoxin causes diseases termed aflatoxicoses. While acute aflatoxicosis leads to death, chronic aflatoxicosis leads to immune suppression, cancer, and other gradual pathological conditions. You can decrease aflatoxin exposure by purchasing major brands of nuts and discarding moldy, shriveled, or moldy nuts.

While a large number of people doubt the link between mold and cancer, research suggests otherwise. If you're among the many, these findings may surprise you. If you are experiencing air quality issues, please contact us for a solution (416) 414-5690