Geo-climatic heterogeneity in self-reported asthma, allergic rhinitis and chronic bronchitis in Italy

Pollen concentrations and prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis in Italy: Evidence from the GEIRD study

“…In our study on adults, there was no association between pollen concentrations and asthma prevalence. In a recent study on the same population, we reported that there is a substantial variability of asthma prevalence in Italy, and that this variability can be explained to a large extent by a "climate indicator" obtained by factor analysis on data from all 110 main Italian cities (Pesce et al, 2016). In Italy, asthma prevalence is greater in areas where annual temperatures are higher and temperature ranges are smaller, which are typical features of the mediterranean climate Zanolin et al 2004;Pesce et al, 2016).…”

“…In a recent study on the same population, we reported that there is a substantial variability of asthma prevalence in Italy, and that this variability can be explained to a large extent by a "climate indicator" obtained by factor analysis on data from all 110 main Italian cities (Pesce et al, 2016). In Italy, asthma prevalence is greater in areas where annual temperatures are higher and temperature ranges are smaller, which are typical features of the mediterranean climate Zanolin et al 2004;Pesce et al, 2016). The effect of climate may be partly related to the levels of perennial allergens, as indoor levels of house dust mite allergens are lower in areas with colder winters (Zock et al, 2006), but dietary and lifestyle determinants may also have a role (Pesce et al 2016).…”

“…The other three centers (Ancona, Sassari and Salerno) are coastal cities in central, insular and southern Italy respectively, and they are characterized by a mediterranean climate (Köppen classification: CSA). The subcontinental zone has a lower annual average temperature and a higher annual temperature range than the mediterranean zone (Pesce et al 2016).…”

“…The prevalence of both diseases shows great heterogeneity both between and within countries (Burney et al, 1994;Björnsson et al, 1994). Geo-climatic factors seem to account for part of this variability (Pesce et al 2016). Climatic and meteorological conditions influence the regional flora and intensity of pollination, the dispersion of pollens and the duration of the pollen season (Latorre andCaccavari,2009, Mandrioli andNegrini in D'Amato,1991).…”

Associations among high altitude, allergic rhinitis, and bronchial hyperreactivity

“…[1,2] Industrial development, exposure to pollutants, indoor mites and other allergens, and humidity problems are increasing the incidences of allergic airway disease, bronchial responsiveness, and airway inflammation. [3] Several treatment options have been developed.…”