Mold in buildings can make asthma worse and even cause breathing problems in healthy people, but there is no substantial evidence that proves that mold causes other claimed illnesses, such as memory loss, fatigue, seizures, fevers and skin outbreaks, the National Academy of Sciences reports.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention called for the investigation in response to the mold controversy, which has prompted hundreds of lawsuits, millions of dollars in cleanup costs and claims that the fungi breed illnesses.

The report points out health hazards associated with dampness in buildings and recommends removal of mold and moisture in buildings.

The report noted that mold is not the only culprit associated with damp buildings: bacteria and dust mites also multiply.

The committee for the report suggests better building design, construction and maintenance to prevent the widespread problem.

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