UPDATE: A shocking new report reveals that one in three Australians is now living with an allergy, highlighting an urgent health crisis affecting millions. The alarming analysis from Deloitte Access Economics shows that approximately 8.2 million Australians are grappling with at least one allergic condition, a steep rise from the 4.1 million reported in 2007.
The report details the most prevalent allergies, including hay fever (23.5%), eczema (10.9%), asthma (9.3%), food allergies (7% ), and drug allergies (5% ). Notably, it reveals that one in ten Australian babies now suffers from a food allergy. Last year, over 2,400 individuals were hospitalized due to anaphylaxis, with 20 fatalities reported, primarily linked to food, insect stings, or medications. Additionally, asthma claimed the lives of 474 people in 2022.
The financial impact of allergic diseases is staggering, with costs estimated at $18.9 billion annually and a further $44.6 billion in lost wellbeing. Experts are sounding the alarm over these findings, advocating for urgent investment to support those affected by allergies.
According to Kirsten Perrett, director of the National Allergy Centre of Excellence, these trends may be attributed to environmental changes such as urbanization, pollution, and lifestyle factors like antibiotic use and increased sanitization. “Australia has some of the highest allergy rates globally, including the world’s highest reported rate of infant food allergy, affecting one in ten babies,” she stated.
Perrett emphasized that the burden of allergies extends beyond physical health, significantly disrupting daily life and inflicting emotional and financial strain on families. “Through national research collaboration, we’re now better placed than ever to understand these complex conditions and deliver more targeted, effective responses,” she added.
Maria Said, co-chair of the National Allergy Council and head of Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia, echoed these sentiments, stating, “For too long, the everyday impact of allergies has remained invisible. Allergies don’t just disrupt health – they reshape lives. Millions of families are living with constant vigilance and fear.”
The report calls for an immediate focus on clinical and public health programs aimed at reducing allergy-related costs, upskilling healthcare professionals, addressing data gaps, and accelerating research efforts in allergy prevention and management.
As Australia grapples with this escalating crisis, the time for action is now. Families are seeking support and solutions to navigate the challenges posed by allergies in their daily lives.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent public health issue as experts push for necessary changes and increased awareness.
