Volatile organic compounds (VOC) in homes associated with asthma and lung function among adults in Northern Europe

Associations between measured specific VOC reported to be associated with dampness and microbial growth in dwellings and asthma, lung function were investigated in 159 adults (one adult/home) from three North European cities (Reykjavik, Uppsala and Tartu). Spirometry was performed and forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) and FEV₁/FVC were measured. Among 159 participants, 58% were females, 24.5% atopics, 25.8% current smokers and 41% reported dampness or mold at home. Dimethyl disulphide (p = 0.004), ethyl isobutyrate (p = 0.021) and ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (p = 0.035) were associated with asthma. Isobutanol (p = 0.043), 3-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.020), 2-hexanone (p = 0.033), 1-octen-3-ol (p = 0.027), 2-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.022) and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (p = 0.045) were associated with lower FEV₁. Isobutanol (p = 0.004), 3-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.001), 2-heptanone (p = 0.047) and 2-methyl-1-butanol (p = 0.002) were associated with lower FEV₁/FVC. The association between dimethyl disulphide and asthma was more pronounced in females (p for interaction 0.099). The association between 1-butanol and lower FEV₁ was more pronounced in males (p for interaction 0.046). The associations between 3-octanone (p for interaction 0.064), 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (p for interaction 0.049) and lower FEV₁, and between 2-heptanone (p for interaction 0.021), 3-octanone (p for interaction 0.008) and lower FEV₁/FVC were stronger in homes with dampness/mold. Factor analysis identified one VOC factor related to asthma and two VOC factors related to lower lung function. Increased air concentrations of 2-heptanone, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate and ethyl isobutyrate were related to prescence of certain mold species (Aspergillus sp., Cladosporum sp. and Penicillium sp.) or building dampness. Some VOC were associated with type of dwelling, building age and pet keeping. In conclusion, some VOC reported to be associated with dampness and microbial growth can be associated with asthma and lower lung function in adults. Associations between these VOC and respiratory illness can be stronger in homes with dampness/mold. There can be gender differences in respiratory health effects when exposed to indoor VOC.