Allergies Plague One-Third Of Americans - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Nov, 2000

Allergies affect more than one-third of all Americans--almost twice as many as experts have believed --according to a survey commissioned by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). Moreover, millions suffer unnecessarily or rely on medications they don't want to take because they don't know about other effective treatment options.

A representative sample of 1,004 adults was asked about their experiences with allergies. Thirty-eight percent reported having them, while 56% said they live in a household in which at least one member has allergies. Previously, the number of people affected was thought to be closer to 20% of the population. Among those who said they live in households with members who have allergies, 60% could not name any treatments other than prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Almost two-thirds of respondents who said they have allergies had never tried or considered allergy shots, also known as allergy immunization or vaccination. Allergy shots are a well-established treatment that naturally desensitizes the immune system. Small amounts of purified extracts of the substance causing allergic reactions are periodically injected and gradually increased until immunity is attained. They are effective against allergic rhinitis (hay fever), insect sting allergy, and asthma, among others.

The treatment has a long track record of effectiveness and safety, with the incidence of adverse reactions less than 0.2%. It can be given to children as young as four and is safe for pregnant women as long as treatment was begun before pregnancy.

The survey found that 54% of respondents would be willing to try allergy shots if the treatment would free them from medications. A negative perception of allergy shots by a substantial number surveyed was related to cost. More than half answered "yes" when asked if they thought allergy shots are expensive.

"The perception seems to be that vaccination is a great treatment for allergies, but is not affordable," suggests Ira Finegold, ACAAI past-president. "In fact, allergy shots often are covered by health plans, and the treatment can eliminate the need to buy medications. Overall, it's often less expensive and more effective than relying on medications every day and trying to isolate the allergy-sufferer from the environment. In many cases, the shots eventually can be discontinued, along with allergy medications, and the immunity maintained."