by Allergic diseases have seen a significant increase in prevalence since the industrial revolution. This rise can be partially attributed to the hygiene hypothesis, which suggests a connection between hygienic standards and reduced exposure to microbial substances during childhood.
In school-aged children, the prevalence of sensitivity to at least one allergen continues to rise, nearing 50%. This trend is indicative of the growing burden of allergic diseases worldwide.
Allergic rhinitis, drug allergies, and food allergies are some of the major types of allergies that contribute to the epidemiology of allergic diseases.
Allergic Rhinitis:
Globally, allergic rhinitis affects an estimated 10-30% of the total population. Presence of IgE antibodies, which target immune cells causing chemical release and triggering allergic reactions, indicates some degree of sensitization. Up to 40% of individuals show IgE antibodies to environmental proteins.
In 2012, approximately 17.6 million adults (7.5% of the total population) were diagnosed with hay fever, a common form of allergic rhinitis. During the same period, 6.6 million children (9%) experienced hay fever symptoms.
In the United States alone, 7.8% of adults suffer from allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.
Ethnicity appears to play a role in the likelihood of being affected. Children with fairer skin have a higher tendency to develop hay fever compared to those with darker skin (10% versus 7%).
Drug Allergy:
Adverse drug reactions are quite common, affecting up to 10% of the general population worldwide. Hospitalized patients have a relative risk that is approximately double. Fatal cases of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, may also be associated with drug allergies, accounting for 1 in 5 anaphylactic deaths.
Fever, rash, and urticaria (hives) are some of the obvious signs of an allergic reaction to a drug. Risk factors for drug allergy include the type of drug, dose and duration of administration, genetic factors (such as HLA type and Acetylator status), and concurrent health conditions.
Food Allergy:
A large-scale study of nearly 40,000 children revealed that 8% have at least one food allergy, with 30% of them having multiple food allergies. Additionally, more than a third of children with food allergies have a history of severe reactions.
In the United States, approximately 3.5-4% of the general population suffers from IgE-mediated food allergy or sensitivity.
The most common food allergens are peanuts, followed closely by milk and shellfish. Other common allergenic foods include eggs, tree nuts, soy, grains with gluten, and fish.
The severity of these allergies can vary significantly, with some individuals experiencing minimal effects with dietary intake. However, sensitive responses are observed in controlled experimental testing environments.
The rising prevalence of allergies is a global concern, necessitating further research, awareness, and proper management strategies to alleviate the burden on individuals and healthcare systems.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
