Like other roaches, the Oriental cockroach is a nuisance to humans, and feeds on filth. This species also has a strong odor.

German cockroaches are the most common, and have the most impact as a nuisance. They may transmit disease organisms, and cause allergic reactions in some people.

Cockroaches have been reported to spread at least 33 kinds of bacteria, six kinds of parasitic worms, and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens.

Nuisance, and health hazard as carrier of disease.