What are allergies?

The term "allergy" is used to describe an exaggerated response of the immune system to substances in our environment. These substances are either inhaled (e. g. pollen, house dust, animal hair), ingested (food, drugs) or directly absorbed through skin contact.

There are various allergic reactions. The most frequent and well-known are:

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Allergic asthma
Atopic dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis

Prevalence of allergic diseases:

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) 15 – 25 %
Allergic asthma 5 – 15 %
Atopic dermatitis 10 – 20 %
Allergic contact dermatitis 6 – 10 %

What are the consequences?

With a prolonged duration of the disease, there is a high risk of a more frequent occurrence and an increased severity of symptoms in all types of allergies. An initially only rarely occurring allergic rhinitis can develop into a chronic non-allergic asthma. An allergic eczema of the hands can become chronic as well and is one of the most frequent causes of occupational disability.

Jørgen Philip-Sørensen

1938-2010

It was with sadness that we received notification of the death of Jørgen Philip-Sørensen, the founder of the European Centre of Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF). Over the last years, Philip was a constant, passionate and reliable advisor and a generous benefactor to the activities of ECARF. We shall remember him as a man with great goals and visions, always ready to work hard to make it happen.

Our thoughts are with his family.

Prof. Dr. med. Torsten Zuberbier
Head of ECARF

ECARF Media-Player

Click here for interviews, radio and TV programmes about allergies, and more.

ECARF Quality Seal

The ECARF Quality Seal is awarded to allergy-friendly products and services. Find out here which products have been awarded the ECARF Quality Seal, and how companies can apply for the seal. Read more.