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Longitudinal changes in allergen skin test reactivity in a community population sample
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Allergen reactivity increased significantly in Tucson residents over 8 years, particularly in younger individuals and recent in-migrants. Smokers showed lower atopy, while ex-smokers had the highest reactivity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Allergology
Background:
- High allergen exposure in Tucson contributes to widespread allergic sensitization.
- Changes in allergen skin test reactivity over time require longitudinal study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess changes in allergen skin test reactivity in a Tucson cohort over an 8.1-year period.
- To identify demographic and environmental factors influencing allergen reactivity trends.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal cohort study of 1333 subjects (≥3 years old).
- Repeated allergen skin testing using five antigen mixtures.
- Analysis of demographic factors, in-migration, and smoking status.
Main Results:
- Overall allergen reactivity increased from 39.1% to 50.7%.
- Greatest increases observed in children (22.2%) and teenagers (19.5%).
- In-migration significantly impacted prevalence, especially in adults >35 years; ex-smokers showed highest atopy.
Conclusions:
- Tucson's environment with high aeroallergen levels drives significant allergen reactivity.
- In-migration and smoking cessation are key factors influencing atopy prevalence in this population.
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