Climate Change Tied to Alterations in Pollen Seasons, Concentrations

FRIDAY, April 11, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Climate change seems to be altering pollen seasons and concentrations, potentially impacting allergic rhinitis, according to a review published online April 9 in Laryngoscope.

Alisha R. Pershad, from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C., and colleagues conducted a literature search to characterize the effect of climate change on the epidemiology of allergic rhinitis in adult and pediatric populations globally. Thirty studies published between 2003 and 2023 were eligible for inclusion.

The researchers found that 16 studies reported longer pollen seasons and/or higher pollen concentrations related to climate changes; two projected an increase of 16 to 40 percent in total pollen emissions and a 19-day increase in pollen season length in North America. An increase in allergic rhinitis-related health care usage was reported in four studies; low-income residents were most impacted by the increased usage. Based on the findings of two studies, health care professionals want more education on climate change.

“Raising awareness of the impact of climate change on the field of otolaryngology, as well as understanding areas where otolaryngologists can help mitigate these impacts, can help shape future advocacy efforts,” the authors write.

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