BC Team to Study the Origins of Asthma & Allergy

2008 Team Start-up Award

Allergic diseases – such as asthma, hay fever, eczema, food allergies and anaphylaxis – are becoming the most common chronic diseases in the developed world. The health, social and economic costs are substantial, with approximately one in three Canadians living with some form of allergic illness, and three million suffering from asthma. Research suggests the rise in the incidence of allergic disease is likely related to a combination of genetic, immunological and environmental factors and their integrated effects on immunity. Currently, the characteristics and effects of these interactions are unknown. Established with an MSFHR Team Planning Award in 2006, this team of clinician-scientists and biomedical researchers is researching the fundamental causes of allergic disease. The team’s goals will be to: identify factors and pathways that affect the neonatal immune system and lead to the development of (or reduce the risk of) allergic conditions; assess the environmental agents relevant to asthma and allergies; support the development of allergic diseases personnel; partner with national and international researchers to secure sustainable research support; and advance knowledge of allergic diseases.

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