How are climate changes increasing global allergy risks and new triggers?

An estimated 10–30% of people worldwide suffer from allergy seasons. Allergies are the sixth most costly chronic disease, with associated healthcare expenditures of about $10 billion annually.?

It is alarming how developed and developing countries are engulfed by these constantly rising allergies. Allergies are a common and growing health concern affecting people irrespective of age, gender, and genetics. Increasing temperatures and higher carbon dioxide levels due to climate change are a perfect storm for pollen-producing plants. Hence, we see longer and more intense pollen seasons, creating havoc for allergy sufferers. The most annoying symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery, or bloodshot eyes, and coughing.?

Climate change increases potential exposure to allergens.

As mentioned above, the increase in temperature contributes to earlier and longer pollen and allergy seasons. A recent study reveals that warming temperatures have lengthened the pollen season by an average of 20 days.?

Higher temperatures also produce ozone, which may make allergic people more responsive to allergens.?

• Warmer temperatures contribute to an increase in allergies. Poor air quality reduces lung function and increases the risk of asthma complications, heart failure, and death.?

The higher the carbon dioxide levels, the greater the plant’s growth. It further results in increased pollen production and increased pollen potency.?

• The annual birth pollen count from 2010 to 2100 is expected to be 1.3 to 2.3 times higher.?
• Exposure to molds that cause allergies may increase due to the high impact of weather events, which may result in flooding.
• Some molds become even more allergic to higher carbon dioxide levels.?

Carbon dioxide enhances urushiol oil in plants such as poison ivy and poison oak, making them more poisonous.?

Climate change and its impact on human health

We are seeing that warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide levels due to climate change are responsible for longer and more intense pollen seasons. It is like competing with a much stronger opponent (climate change) in a boxing match and getting an unfair advantage.nbsp;

The most common allergic diseases worldwide are asthma, eczema, and hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis. Symptoms can range from a runny nose, sneezing, itching, and coughing to severe asthma attacks that can be hazardous to health. The increased exposure to pollen can cause allergies with severe symptoms:?

• Asthma Attacks and Respiratory System: Increased airborne pollen can trigger asthma attacks and respiratory diseases, thus impacting the quality of life. The airways narrow, and mucus production during asthma attacks makes it difficult to breathe, which can be life-threatening.
• Air Quality and Respiratory Health: Poor air quality can irritate and even tighten the lungs of people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, increasing the risk of asthma attacks and other respiratory issues.?
• Greenhouse Emissions and Air Pollution: Greenhouse emissions, including CO2, are the main driver of climate change, which in turn affects pollen seasons. However, by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change.?

Navigating the impact of climate change, allergies, and health in India

The country is ranked seventh among the countries most affected by climate change in 2019. The effect was twofold: about 2,267 lives were lost, and the economic damage was 66,182 million US dollars. India may account for 34 million of the projected 80 million people losing their jobs from heat stress by 2030.?

About 20 to 30% of the country's population suffers from at least one allergic disorder. There are approximately 37.5 million cases of asthma in India, including a recent study that revealed the coexistence of allergic rhinitis and asthma.?

In India, social and economic inequalities and individual characteristics put many communities and individuals at a higher risk of getting allergies from climate change. In 33 selected studies, the estimated prevalence of asthma among urban boys was higher. Overall, 40-50% of pediatric asthma conditions are uncontrolled and severe.?