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

• DOI: 10.1289/ehp.8561
• Publication Date: 2005-11-15T18:05:12Z
• Authors: Richard D. Cohn; Samuel J. Arbes; Renee Jaramillo; Laura H. Reid; Darryl C. Zeldin
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

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