How many people suffer from allergies?

Ugeskr Læger 2005;166:605-607

The prevalence of allergic diseases has increased in recent decades. The causes of this increase are not known. In Denmark, up to 20% of young adults suffer from allergic rhinitis. The estimated asthma prevalence is 5%. Food allergy has been self-reported by at least one family member in one third of all families, although this could be confirmed by oral challenge in only 2-3%. The quality of life of patients with allergic disease is significantly impacted. The rising prevalence of allergic diseases emphasizes the need for further epidemiological research to identify risk factors and thereby enable the development of measures for their prevention.