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allergies in canada: stats, types, and resources

from common food allergies to seasonal pollen sensitivities, this article dives deep into the subject of allergies.

by corey deeth

published jan 19, 2024

8 minute read

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8 minute read

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allergies in canada: stats, types, and resources

the most commonly reported allergens by canadians were pollen or grasses (40.7 per cent), followed by certain animals (28.5 per cent). getty images

for the millions of canadians who suffer, allergies can significantly impact quality of life. canada, with its distinct geographical and climatic characteristics, is home to a unique set of allergens that pose challenges to its population. navigating the intricate landscape of allergies is not merely an individual experience, but a collective health concern that significantly impacts the canadian population. allergies, ranging from common hay fever to more severe reactions, have become increasingly prevalent, affecting the lives of millions across the country.

from common food allergies to seasonal pollen sensitivities, this article dives deep into the subject of allergies. we’ll uncover what allergies are, current allergy statistics, and the impact of allergies on canadian society, now and into the future.

what are allergies?

allergies are immune system responses to substances that are typically perceived as threats by the body. these substances, known as allergens, trigger an allergic reaction when they come into contact with the body. this can be through inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact.

the immune system of an allergic individual identifies these allergens as foreign invaders and produces antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin e (ige), to combat them. upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, the immune system releases various chemicals, such as histamines, triggering allergic symptoms.

allergies can manifest in a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and can affect different parts of the body. common allergic reactions include sneezing, itching, watery eyes, skin rashes, and nasal congestion. in more severe cases, allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

allergens are diverse and can include pollen, pet dander, certain foods (such as nuts, shellfish, and dairy), insect stings, medications, and latex, among others. the specific set of allergens and the severity of allergic reactions vary from person to person.

individuals with a family history of allergies, individuals with asthma, and children are more likely to develop allergies.

types of allergies

allergies can manifest in various forms, and individuals may be allergic to a wide range of substances. the most common types of allergies are:

food allergies: individuals could have reactions to specific foods such as nuts, shellfish, eggs, dairy, soy, and wheat. symptoms can range from mild itching and hives to severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
seasonal allergies: hay fever allergies or allergic rhinitis are triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds during specific seasons. symptoms can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
medication allergies: allergic reactions to certain medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers. symptoms may include skin rashes, swelling, or more severe reactions.
latex allergies: individuals with sensitivities to latex, often found in gloves, balloons, and certain medical devices. symptoms range from skin irritation to more severe respiratory reactions.
insect sting allergies: reactions to bee stings, wasp stings, or bites from other insects. symptoms can range from localized swelling and redness to severe allergic reactions.

it’s essential for individuals with allergies to identify their specific triggers and manage their exposure. allergists and healthcare professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing allergies and providing guidance on effective management strategies.

current allergy statistics in canada

millions of canadians struggle with a spectrum of allergies, ranging from common food allergies and environmental triggers to specific sensitivities.

in 2017, approximately 8.4 million canadians aged 12 and older, (27.3 per cent of the population), reported having allergies diagnosed through allergy tests. notably, females (28.9 per cent) were more prone to reporting allergies compared to males (25.6 per cent). the prevalence of allergies among females was at its lowest within the 12 to 17 age group, while for males, the lowest percentage was observed among those aged 65 and older.

the most commonly reported allergens by canadians were pollen or grasses (40.7 per cent), followed by certain animals (28.5 per cent), dust mites (27.3 per cent), and specific medications (28.0 per cent). among individuals with allergies, around 3.6 million people (42.8 per cent) reported being allergic to multiple allergens.

in canada, there’s over three million self-reported cases of food allergies. nearly 600,000 children under the age of 18 suffer from food allergies, emphasizing the significant impact on the younger demographic. peanuts are one of the most common allergens, affecting approximately two in every 100 canadian children.

hay fever affects nearly half of all children in canada, while over 20 per cent have been diagnosed with asthma.

impact of allergies on individuals and society

the impact of allergies on canadian society affects both the quality of individuals’ lives and places a burden on the healthcare system. from the daily challenges individuals face to the broader economic and social repercussions, the impact of allergies is multifaceted.

impact on individuals

managing allergies requires constant vigilance and lifestyle adjustments. individuals with allergies must carefully check food labels, inform others about their allergies, and be cautious in various environments to prevent exposure — leading to stress and inconvenience in daily life.

allergies can affect social interactions, especially when individuals have severe allergies. families and friends may need to make adjustments to accommodate dietary restrictions or avoid allergens in shared spaces.

living with allergies can have a notable impact on mental health. the constant vigilance and potential fear of accidental exposure to allergens may contribute to anxiety and stress. individuals with severe allergies, particularly those at risk of anaphylaxis, may experience heightened emotional distress. the psychological toll can extend to family members and caregivers who share the responsibility of allergy management.

moreover, allergies are frequently associated with other health conditions, creating a complex interplay of factors. individuals with allergies may be more susceptible to comorbidities such as asthma, chronic sinusitis, or eczema. the compounding effects of these conditions can further contribute to psychological distress, as individuals navigate the intricacies of managing multiple health issues simultaneously.

overall, allergies can diminish the quality of life for affected individuals. persistent symptoms such as itching, congestion, and fatigue can affect sleep and daily functioning. plus, the need for constant vigilance and adaptation to allergy management strategies may create challenges in achieving a sense of normalcy in their day-to-day life.

impact on society

allergies also hold the potential to place a substantial financial burden on the canadian healthcare system. expenses arise from diagnostic tests, medical consultations, prescription medications, and emergency interventions. when an individual suffers from severe allergic reactions, especially anaphylaxis, immediate medical attention and hospitalization may be required, further adding (to the already high) healthcare costs.

in the workplace, allergies can lead to a loss of productivity caused by absenteeism due to allergy-related symptoms, medical appointments, and recovery periods — contributing to a decrease in productivity levels. this not only affects individual economic productivity but also has broader economic implications for employers and the national economy.

resources and support available for allergies in canada

in canada, there are various resources and support networks available to help individuals manage and cope with allergies. these resources cover medical assistance, community support, and government initiatives.

your primary care team, including family doctors and nurse practitioners, can offer initial assessments, prescribe medications, and coordinate referrals to specialists if needed.
allergists and immunologists are specialized healthcare professionals who can provide diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies. you can access their services through referrals from primary care physicians or by contacting allergy clinics directly.
organizations like food allergy canada, asthma canada, and the canadian allergy, asthma, and immunology foundation provide resources, support, and information for individuals with allergies. these organizations often offer educational materials, support groups, and online communities.
the canadian society of allergy and clinical immunology offers insight on managing severe food allergies along with free education courses on anaphylaxis.
there are several specialized allergy clinics in all provinces that offer comprehensive assessments, testing, and treatment options. these clinics may be affiliated with larger medical institutions or operate independently.
health canada offers a number of resources on food allergies, latex allergies, airborne allergies, and managing allergies in the workplace.

when seeking support for allergies in canada, a combination of these resources can help individuals and their families manage their condition effectively and stay informed about the latest developments in allergy care.

the future of allergies in canada

climate change is playing a major role in influencing the future of allergies in canada. climate change can influence seasonal allergies in several ways, exacerbating the impact of allergens on individuals. warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns can lead to longer growing seasons for plants that produce allergenic pollen, such as grasses, trees, and weeds. this prolongs the exposure period for individuals susceptible to pollen allergies.

climate change is also associated with an increase in air pollution levels. poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory symptoms in individuals with allergies, making their reactions more severe.

it’s important to note that individual responses to these changes can vary, and not everyone will be affected in the same way. individuals with pre-existing allergies may experience more severe symptoms, and those who were previously unaffected may develop new sensitivities due to changing environmental conditions. adapting to these changes may involve adjustments in allergy management strategies, increased awareness, and proactive healthcare measures for affected individuals.

ongoing research and upcoming treatment options

in canada, ongoing research in the field of allergies continues to pave the way for innovative treatment options, offering hope for improved management and enhanced quality of life for individuals affected by allergic conditions. researchers are exploring various fronts, including advancements in immunotherapy (such as novel strategies), and a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of allergic reactions.

immunotherapy, a treatment that aims to desensitize individuals to allergens, remains a focal point of research efforts. traditional forms of immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, are being refined, and researchers are investigating sublingual immunotherapy (under-the-tongue tablets or drops) for its effectiveness and convenience. these approaches seek to modify the immune system’s response, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.

additionally, pharmaceutical research is actively pursuing new medications that target specific aspects of the allergic response. from antihistamines to biologics, the goal is to develop more targeted and personalized treatments that can address the diverse spectrum of allergic conditions.

as research progresses, the potential for innovative treatment options grows, offering a brighter outlook for individuals with allergies in canada. the collaborative efforts of scientists, healthcare professionals, and organizations contribute to advancing our understanding of allergies and, ultimately, enhancing the arsenal of tools available for effective allergy management.

from the economic strain on the healthcare system to the intricate web of social and psychological challenges, allergies demand our attention and concerted efforts for effective management and support. to build a healthier and more inclusive society, it is imperative that we prioritize research to deepen our understanding, advocate for better policies that enhance accessibility and support, and foster greater public awareness to dispel misconceptions surrounding allergies.

you can play a role in raising awareness about allergies in canada. share this article with friends and family to spread knowledge and understanding. you can also consider contributing to allergy awareness initiatives to support the community. if you or someone you know is experiencing allergy symptoms, seek prompt medical attention to address and manage the condition effectively. early intervention is crucial in preventing complications and fostering a healthier environment for everyone.

corey deeth

allergies in canada: stats, types, and resources