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1078207 
Journal Article 
Classroom aeroallergen exposure in Arkansas head start centers 
Perry, TT; Vargas, PA; Bufford, J; Feild, C; Flick, M; Simpson, PM; Hamilton, RG; Jones, SM 
2008 
Yes 
Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
ISSN: 1081-1206
EISSN: 1534-4436 
100 
4 
358-363 
English 
18450122 
WOS:000254706800012 
BACKGROUND: The impact of preschool environmental conditions on classroom aeroallergen concentrations is not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between school environmental conditions and classroom aeroallergen concentrations in the Pulaski County Head Start (HS) Program.

METHODS: Thirty-three HS centers in Pulaski County, Arkansas, underwent a detailed environmental evaluation. Classroom settled dust samples were analyzed for the presence of common indoor allergens.

RESULTS: Classroom eating (70%), wall-to-wall carpeting (58%), and water damage (33%) were common. Median classroom allergen levels were as follows: dust mite (Der p 1 and Der f 1), 0.6 microg/g; Fel d 1, 0.4 microg/g; Can f 1, 1.7 microg/g; cockroach, below detection; Mus m 1, 0.18 microg/g; and mold spores, 17,800 CFU/g. Can f 1 and Mus m 1 allergens were detected in 100% of HS centers. Facilities with carpeting, increased humidity, and single-use facilities showed trends toward increased dust mite concentrations. Detectable cockroach allergen was more common in classrooms cleaned by teachers than by professional housekeepers.

CONCLUSIONS: Aeroallergens were commonly detected in Pulaski County HS center classrooms, with dog and mouse allergens detected in 100% of centers. Median classroom allergen concentrations were low, and classroom characteristics were not strongly predictive of increased allergen exposure.