BHE314 Module4 Case

Environmental Health Presented By Name Presented To Lecturer Institution Date 1. Health Hazards Associated With Mold and Lead in Houses The low-income communities face challenges in their day to day lives. This is mostly characterized in the types of apartments they may be residing in. Due to low-income level, these people may not afford to pay the well maintained houses which are mostly expensive. They might also not be at a position to maintain their houses finding themselves in houses with peeling wall paints which most probably are lead-based. Molds are a group of fungi that may grow everywhere naturally and mostly reproduces on wet surfaces. For instance, after a heavy downpour one can expect to see molds especially if the area is not cleaned or disinfected well. On the other hand, lead is a soft bluish metal and is said to be highly poisonous to human beings (Falcon, 2010). The health hazard associated with mold growing in these poorly maintained houses include causing allergy to people, asthma and related respiratory problems. Exposure to high levels of molds may result to skin rush, eye irritation, running nose and nasal congestions. Other health threatening effects include fatigue, nausea and headache as well as adverse effects to the nervous system. Exposure to humans of lead may cause to nervous system damage; respiratory problems and also blood- forming malfunction. Several ways may be used to get rid of mold and lead from walls and furniture. Mold and lead may be cleaned off the walls and furniture by use of mild detergent solutions. Residents should clean the areas by using warm water and laundry detergents. While working on moldy areas one should wear protective clothing such as gloves, breathing protection and eye goggles. Residential areas should be inspected regularly to ensure that mold and lead do not accumulate. Furniture, curtains and other accessories should be removed from rooms containing molds or lead while cleaning them. Regular cleaning should be done since wall paper pastes are the potential breeding ground for molds and lead. It is highly recommended that lead and mold should be removed by qualified personnel (Falcon, 2010). Children should be tested and monitored for chances of lead poisoning, even if they look healthy. High level of hygiene should be maintained for example regular washing of hands and thorough cleaning of feeding bottles. Regular cleaning of walls and window sills should be emphasized within residential areas. During renovation, precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to lead poisoning. Similarly try as much as possible not to re...