The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

World Asthma Day - 6 May 2003 ASCIA - media release

ASCIA topic of the month - May 2003

Asthma and allergic diseases have increased dramatically over recent years. Australia has the second highest prevalence of asthma in the world; 1 in 4 children, 1 in 7 teenagers and 1 in 10 adults.

The reasons for this are unclear. However, we do know that:

• around 4 in 10 Australians have allergic disease
• more than 8 in 10 Australians with asthma have positive allergy test results.

As most people with asthma have a genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases, allergens can be important trigger factors that may worsen their asthma.
The most common allergic triggers of asthma are house dust mite, pets, pollen and moulds.

Even though complete allergen avoidance will not cure asthma, reduced exposure to allergen triggers can lead to improved asthma control and reduce an individual's need for medication. Therefore avoiding or reducing exposure to identified allergic triggers is an important part of asthma management.

Advice on how to reduce or avoid exposure to allergens has recently been updated on the ASCIA website:

Allergen Avoidance - http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/187/126/  

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© ASCIA 2003

The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) is the peak professional body of Clinical Allergists and Immunologists in Australia and New Zealand.

Disclaimer:
ASCIA Education Resources (AER) information bulletins have been peer reviewed by ASCIA members and represent the available published literature at the time of review. It is important to note that information contained in this bulletin is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.