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Internal and external environmental influences in allergic diseases
1Division of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin 4.202MSB, Houston, TX 77030-1501, USA. gallen.d.marshall@uth.tmc.edu
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|June 5, 2004
Summary
Allergy involves immune hypersensitivity to allergens, with rising incidence linked to genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors like diet and pollution. Research aims to develop new therapies for managing and preventing allergic sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) and mast cells.
- Allergic diseases have increasing incidence and prevalence, linked to genetic and environmental factors.
- Western lifestyle factors, including indoor environments, diet, pollution, and stress, exacerbate allergy risks and asthma development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the mechanisms of allergic reactions.
- To highlight the growing concern regarding allergic disease prevalence.
- To discuss the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on allergic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of immunological mechanisms of allergy.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends in allergic diseases.
- Examination of environmental and lifestyle influences on allergy.
Main Results:
- Allergic reactions are triggered by allergen-specific IgE cross-linking on mast cells, releasing inflammatory mediators.
- A significant increase in allergic disease incidence and prevalence is observed.
- Western lifestyle factors are associated with increased risk of allergic diseases and asthma.
Conclusions:
- Understanding allergic mechanisms is crucial for developing new therapies.
- Interventions targeting environmental and lifestyle factors may help manage and prevent allergic sensitization.
- Further research is needed to combat the rising burden of allergic diseases.