Cockroaches infest many households and other buildings in the United States. Cockroach debris refers to the cuticles (skin), feces, saliva, eggs and even the dead bodies of these insects ­– all of which can be allergens.

Cockroaches are constantly shedding cuticles and producing feces, saliva and eggs, and this debris can accumulate very quickly. This debris comprises a large portion of household dust, and becomes easily airborne. Allergens inhaled into the body can trigger allergy or asthma symptoms in sensitive people, including itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulties and chest pain. In rare cases, anaphylactic reactions to cockroach debris can lead to a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylactic shock, which involves difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. 

Cockroach debris is more likely to trigger an asthma attack than cat dander, according to research by the National Institute of Environmental Health Science. Cockroach debris can be found in many indoor environments including homes, schools and commercial/office buildings.

Exposure to cockroach debris is a major cause of asthma worldwide and can be considered a risk factor for the disease. In the United States 17 to 41 percent of people are allergic to these insects with a higher prevalence in inner cities, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI). Cockroaches are the most common cause of allergic asthma in children in the inner city. Children allergic to cockroach debris have a three times higher rate of hospitalization when cockroach allergens are in their bedrooms. Although cockroach allergy may develop in anyone, the rates are much higher for children in lower socioeconomic groups. In addition, exposure to cockroach allergens in the home contributes to the development of severe asthma.

Another cockroach allergen that is also found in dust mites and some seafood is called tropomyocin. Research is ongoing to determine whether tropomyocin will cause the development of shellfish allergies in someone with cockroach debris allergy.

An active cockroach infestation is not required for cockroach debris to be present indoors, and cockroaches do not have to be alive to cause problems. Human activities easily bring cockroaches, eggs and/or debris into previously non-infested environments. Cockroaches can be introduced to a home in grocery bags and furniture. People returning from a trip can also carry the insects in their luggage.

Cockroaches tend to live in groups, so where there is one cockroach there is usually many more. In fact, when one cockroach is seen scurrying across the kitchen floor, it is likely that there are 800 or more cockroaches located in various areas of the house.