Why are Allergies Increasing?

With 40% of children in the UK having been diagnosed with one or more allergic conditions and with this figure rising annually, why is it that the growth has been so marked? It would seem that the rise in allergic sufferers could stem from a number of contributing factors.

Genetics

Timing

Environment

With European children spending at least 90% of their lives indoors, the indoor environment is probably more important than other geographic and outdoor environmental factors. Many modern homes are built with economy in mind and are therefore effectively sealed off with little or no ventilation. This can lead to high levels of humidity and consequently an increased growth of allergens such as mould and dust mites both of which are associated with having a powerful effect on atopic children, along with exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy and early childhood.

Protection