A warming climate and the widespread use of fungicides are accelerating the spread of a dangerous fungus capable of destroying the human body from within, according to a new study.
Fungi are an integral part of the ecosystem, and people inhale countless spores every day, most of which pose no threat. However, a small group of mold species can harm humans, devastate crops, and disrupt ecological balance.
According to a preprint published on Research Square, rising temperatures, a growing population of immunocompromised individuals, and the widespread use of fungicides are creating conditions for the spread of treatment-resistant fungi.
Researchers analyzed how three species of Aspergillus could spread through the end of the century under different climate scenarios. A model assuming continued human dependence on fossil fuels suggests the fungus could spread widely across Europe, while parts of Africa may become too hot for its survival.
Aspergillus lives in soil, grains, and animal feathers. Most people inhale its spores without consequence, but in those with weakened immune systems, it can cause severe infections.
Combating the fungus involves the use of azole fungicides to protect crops and azole-based drugs to treat patients. However, combined exposure to these substances is contributing to the development of drug-resistant Aspergillus, complicating treatment.
The spread of species such as A. flavus and A. fumigatus could put millions at risk of infection. Hospitals are already facing outbreaks of Aspergillus linked to construction work or dust storms, while patients recovering from other illnesses often develop severe and treatment-resistant forms of the infection.
Resistance to azoles continues to rise, and mortality rates for infections caused by resistant Aspergillus strains exceed 50 percent. This is partly linked to the use of alternative treatments that can damage the kidneys and liver.
The spread of the fungus also carries economic consequences. A single year of intense Aspergillus growth can result in losses to the corn industry of $1 billion or more.
Rising temperatures and humidity are extending the period favorable for mold growth, forcing farmers into a costly dilemma—either destroy contaminated grain or blend batches to reduce toxin concentrations, a practice that in turn poses risks to consumer health.
Fungi remain far less studied than bacteria and viruses, leaving monitoring systems and drug development lagging behind.
In 2022, the World Health Organization added Aspergillus and Candida species to its list of priority pathogens.
Scientists believe that enhanced surveillance, tighter regulation of fungicide use, and investment in more precise diagnostics for fungal infections could reduce the risk of them evolving into a new pandemic.