Monday, April 28, 2008

Cockroaches Worsen Asthma Symptoms

As many as 98 percent of urban homes have detectable levels of the
cockroach allergen

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- May is national Asthma and
Allergy Awareness Month says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
(AAFA), and Combat(R) brand pest control is doing its part to help spread
the message. Although it might seem like an unlikely connection, studies
show that there is a definite link between the cockroach allergen and the
exacerbation and even causation of asthma.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080428/CLM146 )

"During the past few years, research has shown that cockroach allergens
play a big part in the daily lives of asthma sufferers all over the
country," said Dr. Gretchen Phillips, an MD with Fairview Hospitals, and a
medical show radio host based in Minneapolis.

The link between cockroaches and asthma has been proven in scientific
research since the 1970s. Between 78 and 98 percent of urban homes have
cockroaches, and 23 to 60 percent of urban residents are allergic to the
cockroach allergen, according to the AAFA. The cockroach allergen is so
pervasive in homes around the country, most doctors require patients with
persistent asthma to be tested for cockroach allergies, in addition to
other environmental factors.

In the United States, more than 23 million people suffer from the
chronic respiratory disease, including 6.5 million children.

Around 63 percent of all U.S. households have a detectable level of the
cockroach allergen in the home, according to a 2005 study by The National
Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

Using Combat baits and roach-killing gels will help to kill the
cockroach nest and ultimately improve the air quality. Here are a few
additional steps to help prevent cockroach infestations:


-- Eliminate clutter, such as stacks of clothes or newspapers.
-- Keep food in tightly sealed plastic or glass containers, do not leave
dirty dishes in the sink, vacuum regularly and don't leave out pet food
and water.
-- Keep the inside of your home clean and do not leave out food or crumbs.
-- Seal cracks and crevices, including around water pipes and electrical
outlets.

Suffering from asthma?

Combat asked Dr. Phillips to identify a few easy first-steps for people
who think they might have or are currently suffering from asthma:


-- Consult your physician.
-- Avoid irritants, including pet dander, mold spores and cockroaches.
-- If allergic to pets, make sure they are kept from bedrooms.
-- Clean your home regularly, including air vents.
-- Vacuum two to three times a week.
-- Reduce humidity, which helps prevent growth of mold spores.
-- Avoid cold air.

Dr. Phillips is a family physician at Fairview Hospitals in Minnesota.
Call for an interview.

For more information on cockroaches and the cockroach-to-asthma
connection, subscribe to Combat's blog: combatbugs.blogspot.com. To learn
more about pest prevention and control strategies, visit
http://www.combatbugs.com. Combat(R) products retail from .49 to $14.99 and are
available at most major retailers.

For more than 130 years, Henkel has been a leader with brands and
technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful.
Henkel operates in three business areas -- Home Care, Personal Care, and
Adhesives Technologies -- and ranks among the Fortune Global 500 companies.
In fiscal 2006, Henkel generated sales of 12.740 billion euros and
operating profit of 1,298 million euros. Our 52,000 employees worldwide are
dedicated to fulfilling our corporate claim, "A Brand like a Friend," and
ensuring that people in more than 125 countries can trust in brands and
technologies from Henkel. For more information, visit henkelna.com .





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Via: Healthcare

Опубліковано prolink о 5:42 PM

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