National Prevalence and Exposure Risk for Cockroach Allergen in U.S.Households

摘要

We characterized the prevalence of cockroach allergen exposure in a nationally representative sample of U.S.homes and assessed risk factors for elevated concentrations.DESIGN:We used data from the National Survey of Lead and Allergens in Housing,a population-based cross-sectional survey.PARTICIPANTS:Participants were residents of 831 U.S.homes in the survey.EVALUATIONS/MEASUREMENTS:We analyzed allergen,questionnaire,and observational data of 831 U.S.homes.RESULTS:Cockroach allergen (Bla g 1)concentrations exceed 2.0 U/g,a level associated with allergic sensitization,in 11% of U.S.living room floors and 13% of kitchen floors.Concentrations exceed 8.0 U/g,a level associated with asthma morbidity,in 3% of living room floors and 10% of kitchen floors.Elevated concentrations were observed in high-rise apartments,urban settings,pre-1940 constructions,and households with incomes < 20,000.Odds of having concentrations > 8.0 U/g were greatest when roach problems were reported or observed and increased with the number of cockroaches observed and with indications of recent cockroach activity.CONCLUSIONS:Household cockroach allergen exposure is characterized in a nationally representative context.The allergen is prevalent in many settings,at levels that may contribute to allergic sensitization and asthma morbidity.RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL OR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE:Likelihood of exposure can be assessed by consideration of demographic and household determinants.