Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation on House Dust Mite Sensitive Asthma

The prevalence of asthma is rising sharply in the UK. The house dust mite is the most common trigger associated with asthma, thriving in the humid microclimate favoured by modern housing. Could this be redressed by investment in improved ventilation in local housing? In a pilot study in North Lanarkshire Council housing stock, we demonstrated that dust mite avoidance, in combination with installation of domestic mechanical heat recovery ventilation (MHRV), could inhibit the re-colonisation of house dust mites by reduction of indoor air humidity. In this second phase, a double blind randomized placebo- controlled trial will test the resultant effect on asthma. It will be complete in November 2006. 140 patients with asthma and house dust mite allergy are being recruited and all will have new bedding, mattress covers and carpets cleaned. All will have MHRV units installed in their home, but only half will be activated, before 12 months of environmental and clinical monitoring. The primary endpoint is morning peak flow rate. Secondary endpoints include symptom scores, spirometry, rates of exacerbations, quality-of-life, and economic evaluations. Demonstration that well ventilated, energy efficient dwellings improve the respiratory health of patients with allergic asthma could be of considerable importance in helping the NHS cope with the commonest chronic disease in Scotland.

Inclusion criteria

• House dust mite sensitive
• FEV1 greater than 50%
• Symptomatic asthma or 12% reversibility on spirometry or 15%PEFR lability

Exclusion criteria

• Multi-storey flat