Prevention of Allergy and Allergic Asthma

World Allergy Organization Project Report and Guidelines

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Editor(s): Johannsson, S.G.O. (Stockholm)
Haahtela, T. (Helsinki)

Status: available   
Publication year: 2004
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This book belongs to
Chemical Immunology and Allergy , Vol. 84
Editor(s): Platts-Mills, T.A.E. (Charlottesville, VA)
XX + 212 p., 2 fig., 1 tab., hard cover, 2004
Status: available   
ISSN: 1660-2242
e-ISSN: 1662-2898


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Reviews


The rise and rise of respiratory allergic diseases over the past 25 years remains a puzzle, yet we know that the seeds of allergy are planted in the early years of life. If we are to make any impact on the prevalence of these important diseases, we must look to their prevention in the first few years of life.
This volume draws together in an authoritative statement the outcome of a joint project between the World Allergy Organization (WAO) and the WHO. The contributors are drawn from all regions of the world and are the foremost and highly regarded authorities in their areas. Their contributions are a delight. They are comprehensive, evidence-based, and presented in a thoughtful and focussed manner.
The first few sections make up the bulk of the book. They deal with the genetics of atopic diseases and asthma, environmental influences, and immunological factors in early life that shape the development of allergic diseases and indicate some potential interventions. The remainder of the book discusses practical applications of prevention. There are sections on prediction and early diagnosis, primary and secondary prevention, and occupational allergy. Approaches to public education in asthma and allergy and the health economics of these diseases, is discussed. As yet there are no data on the impact of these interventions, yet the studies provide valuable models that will lead to effective utilization of scarce resources. There are useful appendices covering patient information sheets on allergen avoidance strategies, and content suggestions for educational programs.
In summary, this is an important book, well written and presented in an accessible form. It is an excellent reference, not only for any health professionals, whether specialist or general and in whatever capacity they may be involved in allergic diseases, but also for patients and those interested in understanding the impact of these diseases on health economics.
Ronald S. Walls, MD PhD, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW. Australia (WAO E-Mail Newsletter)

‚Since allergic disorders affect 20-30% of people and asthma affects 5–15% of various populations, patients with such diseases are frequently encountered by general practitioners, pediatricians, internists, dermatologists, otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, and allergists/immunologists. In addition to these health-care providers, the book will be very valuable to preventive-medicine specialists, epidemiologists, health-care planners, and government officials.'
Respiratory Care
Recommends strategies to fight the ‘atopic epidemic’
In the western world, the prevalence of allergy and asthma has increased two- to threefold over the last 40 years and has reached epidemic proportions. This book represents the first complete document containing recommendations on the prevention of allergy and allergic asthma based on the current understanding of the immunological mechanisms of allergic reactions.

Prevention of Allergy and Allergic Asthma was a collaborative project between the WAO (World Allergy Organization) and the WHO, launched in 1999. Following two interim reports, this monograph is the final report of the group of international experts involved in the project, ranging from basic immunologists to clinicians. Both theoretical and practical aspects are discussed, and constructive advice is given. Through its network of more than 70 member societies, the WAO will now promote the concept of prevention of allergies and allergic asthma worldwide to benefit patients prone to become allergic, to prevent the worsening of existing allergic diseases, and to reduce their high cost to society.

This publication is recommended to specialists in allergy, pediatrics, pneumology and dermatology as well as to general practitioners, health care professionals, journalists, politicians and patients. Only by increasing the knowledge about allergic diseases throughout society can the right steps be taken for their effective prevention.

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