A new study from the August edition of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, a monthly medical journal, found that owning a home may be more healthy for an occupant than renting a space.
Statistics from the study showed that previous tenants of rental properties tend to leave behind health hazards when they depart the property for asthma or allergy sufferers without hesitation. On the flip side, people who sell a property are far more likely to leave it in a healthy state when they cease occupation.
The study also found that 63 percent of renters who suffer with chronic respiratory issues are less likely to take the necessary steps to make their unit more healthy, exposing them to greater risk of needing hospital visits than homeowners, of which 91 percent prepare their homes accordingly.
Allergist James Sublett, MD, chairman of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Indoor Environment Committee, WebMD, "[Asthma sufferers] don't have to spend thousands of dollars to reduce exposure to household allergens."
Sublett recommends simple things such as not allowing smoking in the home, minimizing the use of carpeting and utilizing an air purifier after removing any visible mold will go a long way in helping inhabitants breathe easier.
There are also often hidden dangers to a resident's health that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Whether renting or owning, residents with asthma should subject their new space to a home inspection from a trained contractor to determine if a new potential habitat will be detrimental to their respiratory health.