13 August 2004

Tracking pollen grains and mold spores

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), "Over 50 million Americans suffer from allergic diseases such as rhinitis, sinusitis, dermatitis and asthma, making allergic disorders the sixth leading cause of chronic disease in the United States."

Allergic reactions can be triggered by inhaling irritants, such as pollen grains and fungal spores. In North America, the concentration of pollen grains and fungal spores in ambient air peaks during spring and fall. The AAAAI web site hosts daily pollen and mold counts conducted by physicians at some 75 sites across the U.S. and 2 in Canada.

The data from these sites provides important clues about the pre valance of various kinds of pollen during spring and fall. Fungal spores can be present at virtually any time.

The AAAAI web site includes news releases, physician lists and a wealth of information on allergies. "Health Headlines" is an especially interesting section that covers new developments related to allergies, asthma and immunology. Even food allergies are included.

The AAAAI publishes a professional journal, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. For more information, and to check out the pollen count measured by a physician in your section of the country, check out www.aaaai.org/.

Forrest M. Mims III