As World Allergy Week is marked from 21–27 June, South African allergy experts are warning that allergic diseases are becoming a growing public health concern, with hidden allergens in everyday foods posing potentially life-threatening risks.
The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) and the Allergy Society of South Africa (ALLSA) say allergies are often dismissed as minor or seasonal conditions, despite affecting millions of people and contributing to serious health emergencies.
Food allergies alone now affect hundreds of millions of peopleu globally, with reactions ranging from mild symptoms to rapid-onset, life-threatening anaphylaxis.
“Many people still think of allergies as minor or seasonal problems but allergic diseases can significantly impact daily life, school performance, sleep and in some cases can become life threatening,” said AFSA Executive Board Member and Director, Dr Thulja Trikamjee.
Experts warn that allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema, hay fever, food allergies and anaphylaxis often overlap, increasing the risk of severe complications if left undiagnosed or poorly managed.
