Longer Pollen Seasons Impacting Allergy Sufferers in North America
Longer Pollen Seasons Impacting Allergy Sufferers in North America
US · Published Apr 4, 2026
Pollen seasons in North America have lengthened by 20 days since 1990 due to warming temperatures.
About 26% of adults in the US and UK suffer from seasonal allergies, with significant impact on children.
Prolonged pollen exposure can cause respiratory irritation even in individuals without diagnosed allergies.
Pollen season extends, affecting allergy sufferers globally
A recent study indicates that the pollen season in North America has increased by 20 days since 1990, driven by rising global temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events. This extension has intensified allergy seasons, affecting both the United States and the United Kingdom. Seasonal allergies, characterized by allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are triggered by tree pollen in spring, grass pollen in summer, and weed pollen in fall. Approximately 26% of adults in both countries suffer from seasonal allergies, while in the U.S., 19% of children are affected, and in the UK, the rate is 10-15%. The longer pollen season means prolonged exposure to allergens, exacerbating symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
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