Environmental factors and allergic diseases

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Allergy and Immunology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis are influenced by environmental factors.
• Climate affects allergen prevalence, while air pollution, particularly ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter from traffic and industry, exacerbates respiratory allergies.
• Diesel exhaust particulate (DEP) can act as a carrier for allergens, facilitating deep respiratory tract penetration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on environmental factors influencing the prevalence and course of allergic diseases.
• To highlight the role of air pollution, airborne and food allergens, and chemical exposures in allergic conditions.
• To discuss the association between infections and the etiopathogenesis of allergic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of contemporary scientific knowledge.
• Analysis of epidemiological studies on environmental factors and allergic diseases.
• Synthesis of information on various allergens and chemical irritants.

Main Results:

• Strong correlation observed between air pollution (ozone, NO2, PM, DEP) and the development/exacerbation of asthma and allergic diseases.
• Identified major airborne allergens include dust mites, pollens, fungi, and animal dander.
• Over 85,000 environmental chemicals can act as contact allergens or irritants, with metals, fragrances, preservatives, and paraphenylenediamine being significant.

Conclusions:

• Environmental factors play a critical role in the development and management of allergic diseases.
• Reducing exposure to air pollutants and known allergens is crucial for allergy prevention and control.
• Further research into the complex interplay between environment, infections, and allergic disease pathogenesis is warranted.