Regional Variation in Dust Allergen Levels in the Homes of Urban Children with Asthma

Purpose Studies of inner-city asthmatic children have shown significant regional variation in dust allergen exposures. The home environment of asthmatic children in the Gulf South region of the U.S. has not been characterized. This study describes indoor dust allergen levels and characteristics of asthmatic children in New Orleans and explores regional variability in dust allergen exposure. Methods Data were used from baseline home visits of children in the New Orleans Healthy Homes Initiative. Interview, visual observation and environmental dust sampling data of 86 children between 4–17 years of age were analyzed. Results Seventy-seven percent of households had moderate (> 2.0–9.9 μg/g) or high (≥10.0 μg/g) levels of either Der p 1 or Der f 1 dust mite allergen and 56.6% had high (> 2.0–8.0 U/g) or very high (> 8.0 U/g) levels of cockroach allergen (Bla g 1). The prevalence of high (>10 μg/g) levels of dog (Can f 1) allergen was 25.3% and few households (4.8%) had high cat allergen (Fel d 1) levels (>8.0 μg/g). Households with average humidity levels > 50% were three times more likely to have elevated dust mite levels (odds ratio = 3.2; 95% CI =1.1, 9.3; p=0.03). Home ownership and education level was associated with roach and dust mite allergen levels. Conclusions Our findings reinforce evidence of regional variability in dust allergen exposure levels. Children living in the Gulf South may be exposed to a greater number of allergens at levels known to cause sensitization than in other regions of the country.