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Asthma and allergy in Albania
A V Priftanji1, E Qirko, J C Layzell
1Clinic of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Center, Mother Teresa of Tirana, Albania.
Allergy
|October 28, 1999
Summary
Allergy prevalence is low in Albania, a formerly isolated European nation. Factors like economic isolation and high childhood infection rates may contribute to this finding.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Westernization is linked to increased allergic disease risk.
- Albania's historical isolation presented a unique opportunity to study allergy prevalence.
- Investigating allergy rates in Albania compared to other European countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if allergy prevalence is lower in Albania.
- To explore potential factors influencing allergy rates in Albania.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 2653 Tirana residents aged 20-44 years.
- Detailed questionnaires, skin prick tests, and serum IgE assays for 564 participants.
- Comparison with data from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey.
Main Results:
- Lower prevalence of wheeze in Albania compared to other European countries.
- Nasal allergy and atopy (based on specific IgE) were uncommon.
- Elevated serum total IgE concentrations were observed.
Conclusions:
- Albania exhibits a low prevalence of allergic diseases.
- Potential contributing factors include economic isolation, low female smoking rates, absence of domestic pets, and high rates of childhood infections and parasitic infestations.
- Continued monitoring of allergy prevalence and determinants in Albania is recommended as it integrates into Europe.