The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

ASCIA Education Resources (AER) Topic of the month - MAY 2002

Tuesday, 7 May 2002 - WORLD ASTHMA DAY

Asthma is very common in Australia and New Zealand, affecting around one in four children, one in seven teenagers and one in ten adults. Allergy plays an important role in asthma, as one of the major factors associated with the cause and persistence of asthma. Globally, the prevalence of allergy and asthma is continuing to increase, particularly in developed countries.

If people have asthma it is important for them to know if allergy plays a role in their asthma and which allergen or allergens are a problem. Once offending allergen/s are identified, there are several ways to avoid or minimise allergen exposure, to reduce asthma symptoms. In cases where it is difficult to avoid allergens such as pollen, safe and effective medications are available to reduce or prevent symptoms.

Allergic triggers of asthma include:

• dust mite particles;
• skin and saliva of furry or hairy animals such as cats, dogs, horses, rabbits and guinea pigs;
• pollen from grasses, trees and weeds;
• foods such as milk, eggs, peanuts, fish, and occasionally wheat, and certain fruit and vegetables, especially in children; and
• occupational allergens (there are over 200), including substances used in some manufacturing industries.

With appropriate diagnosis and management, most people with asthma and allergy lead normal, active lives with little disturbance to their quality of life.

Further information

Over fifty information bulletins on allergy and asthma are available on the website of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). http://allergy.org.au

Specific asthma topics include:
Asthma and allergy - http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/175/155/

Asthma Issues - http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/174/156/

Thunderstorm asthma - http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/125/157/

Common Myths about allergy and asthma exposed - 
http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/106/118/

World Asthma Day is coordinated by GINA - Global Initiative for Asthma http://www.ginasthma.com/

Media inquiries

Jill Smith
ASCIA Executive Officer
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