CRI Distributes Video to Physicians

Dalton, GA, May 28--More than 15,000 asthma and allergy physicians throughout the U.S. are receiving a 3-minute audio-visual presentation highlighting new studies confirming that well-maintained carpet helps to reduce the likelihood of breathing problems related to indoor environments. The CD-ROM videos are being distributed by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) as part of a multi-pronged public awareness effort called "Carpet Comes Clean." "We want to provide physicians with this information, along with the solid scientific studies that support it" says CRI President Werner Braun. "We feel it will be worthy of their consideration in advising patients with allergies, asthma and other breathing problems that may be affected by indoor air quality." The basis for the video includes computational fluid dynamics modeling using super-computers to track and project the movement of dust and allergens in carpeted and non-carpeted environments. The key, according to Braun, is the number of particles remaining in the so called "breathing zone", the height at which an adult or child would normally inhale air to breathe. "These studies counter much of the misinformation that has been all too common in the media over the past few years, suggesting, without scientific support, that carpet is somehow involved in aggravating asthma and allergies," says Braun. "In fact, well-maintained carpet has no adverse affect on indoor air quality." The video also cites a second study, completed in 2002 on behalf of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, which found a "statistically significant" relationship between carpeted bedrooms and reduced asthma symptoms and bronchial responsiveness. To order copies of the CD, "Carpet: How It Affects the Indoor Air Quality," please contact CRI Publications at 706.428.2114. For more information, please contact Sally Fortenberry, 706.428.2108 or email sfortenberry@carpet-rug.com.