December 12th, 2017
Objective – 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 andAllergens in Housing, a population-based,cross-sectional survey. Participants – Residents of 831 U.S. homes participated 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 under $20,000. Odds of having concentrations over 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. Reproduced with permission from Environmental Health Perspectives