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Allergy seasons getting longer worse due to climate change, study says

wilx.com · last updated

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (WILX) — About one third of American adults and children have at least one allergy, with pollen being the most common.

Dr. Mariel Benjamin, an allergist at University of Michigan Health, said allergy seasons are expected to be longer and severer over time.

“In general, allergy seasons are expected to be longer and more severe over time. This is due to climate change, which is causing warmer temperatures as well as increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere,” Benjamin said.

A study in 2019 showed that pollen seasons are starting about 20 days earlier and lasting about 10 days longer.

Allergy symptoms can have a significant impact on day-to-day life and in some cases cause a medical emergency if left untreated.

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