Dr. Scott Commins discussed the rising impact of climate change on allergies at the 2025 AAAAI meeting. Increased pollen counts contribute to growing allergy rates, including pollen food syndrome. Additionally, warmer winters have led to greater deer migration, increasing the risk of alpha-gal syndrome due to ticks. Awareness and diagnosis of these conditions are becoming critical as environmental changes persist.
At the 2025 annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (AAAAI) held in San Diego from February 28 to March 3, the topic of climate change’s influence on allergies was prominently discussed. Scott Commins, MD, PhD, from the University of North Carolina, addressed the increasing pollen levels and their implications for allergy sufferers. He highlighted the significant rise in pollen counts due to climate change, which may exacerbate allergies as pollen can penetrate the skin, triggering allergic reactions.
Commins pointed out the phenomenon known as pollen food syndrome. He explained that not only is there an uptick in pollen allergies, but food allergies related to cross-reactivity with pollen are also on the rise. This dual effect poses a significant concern for those with allergenic sensitivities, as climate change continues to reshape environmental patterns.
The prevalence of alpha-gal syndrome, associated with meat allergies, has also risen recently. Commins attributes this increase to warmer winters leading to greater deer migration, particularly in the United States. This phenomenon has introduced ticks to new areas, thereby heightening the risk of alpha-gal syndrome due to tick bites in those communities.
Alpha-gal syndrome, a condition triggered by tick bites, has been observed more frequently across the United States, Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia, correlating with rising tick populations. Commins emphasized the importance of recognizing the connection between environmental changes and allergies as the landscape continues to shift due to climate influences.
He urged healthcare providers to remain vigilant for diagnoses that may not have been commonly recognized in the past, such as eczema, food allergies, and the mammalian meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome. His remarks indicate a growing need for medical professionals to be aware of these emerging health concerns as they relate to climate change. Relevant disclosures for Dr. Commins include associations with Regeneron Healthcare Solutions, Genetech USA, and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals.
In summary, the escalating impact of climate change on allergies is evident in the increasing prevalence of pollen and tick-related conditions. Experts like Dr. Scott Commins emphasize the need for greater awareness among healthcare providers to recognize and diagnose these allergies. As environmental conditions continue to evolve, proactive measures are essential to address the health implications arising from climate change.
Original Source: www.hcplive.com
