The World Allergy Organization (WAO) will publish its first Report on the extent of allergy and chronic respiratory diseases worldwide on the 18 June 2008 and has called for immediate collaboration to tackle the current escalation in allergy cases.
In the last 20-30 years, the prevalence of allergic diseases has increased significantly - a trend that shows no signs of abating. It is estimated that 400 million people worldwide experience allergic rhinitis and 300 million people worldwide have asthma with estimated economic costs exceeding those of tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined. One of the most alarming findings from the report is that while the incidence of allergy and associated diseases has increased significantly, the number of healthcare professionals trained in the diagnosis and treatment of allergy has decreased, leaving many patients undiagnosed and untreated. The State of World Allergy Report is a first yet fundamental step towards addressing this situation.
Professor G. Walter Canonica, President of the WAO, comments on the findings of the Report: "This first State of World Allergy Report presents a concerning picture of the rising prevalence of all types of allergic diseases, such as allergic asthma, food allergies, anaphylaxis and rhinoconjunctivitis. However, healthcare resources are not increasing commensurately; there is a pressing need for improved access worldwide to licensed allergy medications. The WAO is at the forefront to analyse, address and respond to these challenges."