Correlation analysis of health and mould in buildings: based on the Health Survey for England

Abstract

Mould in buildings is a significant public health issue in England. It affects the living environment of residents and may also have some negative health effects. This study uses the Health Survey for England (HSE) 2010 dataset to explore the correlation between building mould and health data, and the relationship between mould and building conditions, socio-economics, and lifestyle habits. This paper summarises 23 potentially mould-relevant features based on the literature review and database. It also redefines some features, such as the housing overcrowding criterion. The study used multiple logistic regression to explore the correlations between these key characteristics. The study results show significant correlations between housing crowding, resident education levels, income levels, pet ownership, housing tenure and regional differences and building mould. There were also correlations between mould and respiratory health conditions and mental health issues such as sleep difficulties. Research into the relationship between mould and health in dwellings could be improved by adding more mould-related questions to future HSE surveys.

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ORCID for Stephanie Gauthier: orcid.org/0000-0002-1720-1736

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