Science Friday
Climate Change Has Made Allergy Season Worse. How Do We Cope?
Apr 8, 2025
Dr. Neeta Ogden, a leading allergist and director at the Allergy, Asthma, and Sinus Center in New Jersey, dives into the increasing severity of seasonal allergies due to climate change. She highlights that allergies are starting earlier and becoming more intense, affecting 25% of U.S. adults. The discussion covers the gut microbiome's role in allergies, effective treatments like immunotherapy, and the intriguing hygiene hypothesis, which links environmental exposure to a lower incidence of allergic reactions. Tune in for insights that could help you manage your allergy season!
15:53
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Quick takeaways
- Climate change has significantly intensified seasonal allergies by causing earlier and more robust pollen production from plants.
- Identifying specific allergen triggers and consulting with healthcare providers ensures effective management and mitigation of allergy symptoms.
Deep dives
Increasing Allergy Severity Linked to Climate Change
Seasonal allergies are becoming more severe, with trends indicating rising pollen counts and worsening allergy seasons over the past two decades. Warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide levels contribute to this phenomenon by fostering more robust plant growth, which leads to increased pollen production. Recent studies highlight that allergy seasons are starting almost three weeks earlier than in the past, particularly in the Southeast. These changes necessitate greater awareness and preparation for those suffering from allergies, as they increase exposure to allergens for longer periods each year.
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