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Published on: April 21, 2019
Epidemiology of allergy
Charles S Ebert1, Harold C Pillsbury
1Division of Rhinology, Allergy, and Sinus Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7070, USA. cebert@med.unc.edu
Atopic diseases, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, and food allergies, affect 20% of Americans. Understanding their epidemiology is key for effective treatment and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Allergy
Background:
- Atopic disease encompasses IgE-mediated disorders with varied presentations.
- Allergic diseases affect approximately 20% of the US population.
- Symptoms can manifest across multiple organ systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of inhalant allergies.
- To review the epidemiology of IgE-mediated food allergies.
- To highlight the importance of understanding atopic disease causes for treatment and prevention.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on epidemiological data.
- Analysis of studies on allergic rhinitis, asthma, and food allergies.
- Synthesis of information on IgE-mediated mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Inhalant allergies are a significant cause of allergic rhinitis and asthma.
- Food allergies mediated by IgE are prevalent.
- Cross-system manifestations are common in allergic disease.
Conclusions:
- Epidemiological understanding is crucial for managing atopic diseases.
- Effective treatment and prevention strategies rely on knowledge of allergy causes.
- Atopic disease requires a comprehensive clinical approach.
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