The US Institute of Medicine says toxic mould in homes is not likely to cause serious health problems for most people. The study, released last week, comes amid increasing public concern and litigation about health problems linked to mould.

US insurance companies paid out about $3.5 billion in mould-related claims in 2002.

Claims over toxic mould have been growing for some time and this study will assist the Australian insurance industry as it increases its knowledge and becomes more able to mitigate damage and limit exposures. 

The US study’s panel of epidemiologists, toxicologists and paediatricians said respiratory problems and symptoms of asthma in some cases can be linked to mould and dampness, but found no evidence of neurological damage, reproductive problems or cancer associated with mould.

Although the experts reviewed hundreds of scientific studies, they agreed the research was limited and more studies are needed.

Loretta Worters, Vice President of the Insurance Information Institute, says media misrepresentation of mould has intensified the public’s fear about health concerns, so she hopes the findings might allay those fears. Government bodies have been saying for some time that very few cases exist proving that mould can cause unique or rare health conditions, she said. “Yet misinformation and an astounding array of ailments have been attributed to mould.

 “A general abuse of the tort system has created an ideal environment for growth of mould suits which has impacted the [domestic] and commercial markets – including property, construction, workers’ compensation and liability issues.”