BBC focuses on rise in UK allergy sufferers

Specialist immunologists in the UK have reportedly told BBC News they are seeing a significant rise in the number of patients suffering from several allergies at once, with severity of the reaction also increasing.

A consultant immunologist in Birmingham is quoted in the report as saying "We used to say that 15% of the population had an allergy of some sort, now the figure is nearer 40%". Much of the increase is attributed to increasing incidence of eczema, with the number of cases in England said to have risen by 40% in four years.

Part of the BBC News report centres on increasing numbers of people with oral allergy syndrome (OAS) caused by fruit and vegetables. This affects people with hayfever, as is it is linked to pollen sensitivity. OAS is an allergic reaction to food affecting the lips, mouth and throat. Symptoms of OAS include itching and swelling of the lips and itching, tingling and swelling of the mouth and throat which typically start within minutes of eating, and settle down within an hour. However, whilst allergy to hay fever is seasonal, allergy to fruit and vegetables can continue all the year round, and the severity of reactions is reportedly increasing.

The full report, including a number of videos interviews with immunologists, researchers and patients, can be accessed on the BBC website.