The Growing Problem of Pediatric Allergy in the United States of America

Abstract

The dynamics of pediatric allergy in the United States—as, indeed, in probably most parts of the world—is a subject rich with fascinating and sometimes contradictory elements. On the one hand, with an expanding population and a generally rising level of education and wealth, there is an increased awareness of allergy and heightened interest in doing something about it. On the other hand, with a higher degree of sophistication in the general population, there is frequently a tendency to focus public interest—and, thus, public funds—on more dramatic conditions such as birth defects or cystic fibrosis. Yet, in terms of the harm it does, and in terms of the number of persons affected, allergy is the most significant chronic illness among children in the United States.