Scientists have found out that there had been a steady rise in diseases caused due to allergens since the last quarter of the last century.
The researchers have analyzed the blood samples of 513 middle-aged men from 1996 to 1998 and those were matched with the blood samples of the same men from the past records of 1981-82 and 1975-76. These samples were all tested for the common test against allergens called Phadiatop. The samples that were positive were also tested for levels of a specific IgE. This is an immune system response to allergens that might cause allergic reactions. All samples also tested for H. Pylori and hepatitis A infections.The result showed significant increase in being affected by allergic diseases over the time. Scientists are of the opinion that each year about 4.5% of the males become positive to Phadiatop.
Allergic diseases or atopy had not decreased for these tested men even as they have grown older. However, the researchers say that it will need more research to find out exactly why more and more people are falling prey to atopy.
The results of the study were published in British Medical Journal of this month.
Reference: British Medical Journal, news release
