World Allergy Week to highlight anaphylaxis education, prevention

The World Allergy Organization will host World Allergy Week this week to address the topic of anaphylaxis in an effort to educate, prepare and discuss resources that could potentially prevent anaphylaxis.

“Knowing how to respond when anaphylaxis occurs is critical, as with any emergency response procedures,” Lanny Rosenwasser, MD, president of the World Allergy Organization, said in a press release. “Everyone should be aware of the possible symptoms, how to position the person, and how to administer adrenaline. Any individuals with allergen hypersensitivity should consult regularly with their allergists about possible risk of anaphylaxis and develop actions plans for anaphylaxis episodes and have epinephrine auto-injectors with them at all times.

Lanny Rosenwasser

“Those at risk of severe or fatal anaphylaxis because of asthma, coronary artery disease, or blood pressure problems, should discuss the possible triggers of anaphylaxis with their physicians as well as lifestyle approaches to reduce the risk of anaphylaxis.”

The serious allergic reaction that has a sudden onset within minutes to hours after exposure to a food, drug, or insect sting, can involve more than one body organ system. According to Rosenwasser, however, anaphylaxis does not have to be fatal.

Motohiro Ebisawa

“To increase awareness of anaphylaxis during World Allergy Week 2014, many of the national WAO member societies will organize local events and programs around anaphylaxis that specifically affect their communities,” Motohiro Ebisawa MD, PhD, WAO communications committee chair, said in the press release. “Everyone with an interest in anaphylaxis can participate by contacting their national allergy societies and anaphylaxis advocacy groups.”

For more information:

World Allergy Week 2014. Accessed April 7, 2014.