Association between environmental mold exposure and mild cognitive impairment in older adults: a case-control study

Cognitive disorders have been associated with exposure to environmental molds in case series and animal experimental models. Older adults spend a substantial proportion of their time indoors, where they may be exposed to household mold contamination.

To determine the association between indoor environmental mold exposure and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) among older adults in Bucaramanga during 2024-2025.

A case-control study (1:1 ratio) was conducted, including 60 cases and 60 controls, matched by sex, age, and neighborhood of residence. Cases were selected from the INTERCOG study and controls from the general population. Data collection included participant and housing characterization, the Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool for General Buildings (DMAT), and an assessment of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) related symptoms. Air culture samples were collected from bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens. Indoor CO₂, relative humidity, and temperature, mold-specific serum IgE levels were measured. Multivariable analyses were performed using conditional logistic regression.

Most participants were female, with a median age of 69 years. aMCI was significantly associated with increased odds of SBS-related nasal irritation (OR = 5.84; 95%CI: 1.20-28.37). The presence of Fusarium spp. in kitchen samples (OR = 3.86; 95%CI: 0.85-17.30) and history of diabetes mellitus (DM) showed a positive but non-significant association with aMCI (OR = 7.68; 95%CI: 0.95-61.16). Higher indoor temperature and greater frequency of household cleaning exhibited a protective trend against aMCI.

Nasal irritation experienced indoor and relieved upon leaving the home was significantly associated with aMCI. Positive but non-significant associations were observed for the presence of Fusarium spp. and a history of DM. Higher indoor temperature and more frequent household cleaning showed inverse, non-significant associations with aMCI. These findings highlight the need for further research to elucidate the role of residential environmental exposures with aMCI.