An allergy is an abnormal reaction by the immune system to a normally harmless substance found in the environment.1 It is estimated that 30–40% of the global population is affected by allergies.2
The World Allergy Organization has indicated that complex allergies in women involving polysensitization, multiple organ involvement, and high morbidity are increasing, placing a higher burden on healthcare delivery services around the globe.3
Studies indicate there is a role for sex hormones in allergy and autoimmunity, leading to more females suffering from allergies after puberty than males. Women allergy sufferers often report more-severe symptoms and more admissions to the emergency department and hospital than men.4
- Worldwide, 220–520 million people may suffer from a food allergy, and10–30% of the population is afflicted with allergic rhinitis.3
- Food allergies affect more adult women than adult men.5
- The prevalence of asthma and incidence of asthma exacerbations are consistently higher in women than men.6