As part of a series of three articles on the in-depth investigation into climate change, human health, and health systems conducted as part of the MOUNTADAPT project, this final article in a series of three highlights the fourth research topic considered: the effects of climate change on airborne allergens. To complete the series of articles, read articles one and two.
Studying airborne allergens in Timisoara, Romania
MOUNTADAPT partner, the OncoGen Centre at the Emergency Hospital of Timisoara County (SCJUT) conducted research on bioparticles and weather conditions in the metropolitan area of Timisoara in Romania over a few decades. Their findings provide insight into how climate change affects airborne allergens and, consequently, human health.
Key findings
- An increase in estimated mean annual temperature deviation (≅ +1.4°C), but not in estimated mean yearly precipitation amount was observed.
- Ragweed and grass pollens, and molds are the main sensitizers in the regions. More than one-third of the monosensitized patients were allergic to ragweed, and this trend is still true today.
- The case incidence rate rises with a two-week delay following the increase in the ragweed pollen load. This delay offers a crucial window of opportunity, allowing the initiation of specific treatment for ragweed allergic patients immediately after the pollen increase.
- It is known that regions with higher mean annual temperatures are associated with higher concentrations of ragweed pollen. Additionally, SCJUT’s sensors recorded that in September 2023, ragweed pollen was the major airborne allergen, while the peak pollen load correlated with a peak in the particulate matter levels, including microplastics, which arguably increases the pollen allergenicity.
In addition, with the new sensor network installed in 2023, SCJUT was able to monitor pollens, spores and particulate matter in the metropolitan area of Timisoara. Their findings showed that, increased levels of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Alternaria and Cladosporium are present in the air, in addition to other fungal spores (such as Botrytis sp., Uredinio spores). The allergenic potential of these spores is unknown, with low to no evidence in the literature. Furthermore, their connection with the climate changes remains to be investigated.
Expanding research in MOUNTADAPT
Building on these findings, SCJUT will further:
- Analyse and interpret the airborne particle concentration data obtained using the new sensor network,
- Analyse and interpret the environmental factors (temperature, precipitation, and other climate variables), and
- Evaluate the sensitization patterns to airborne allergens.
Stay tuned for more project news in 2025!
