AAFA releases 'Allergy Capitals' list

LANDOVER, Md. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America on Thursday released its new list of the 100 “Allergy Capitals” (www.AllergyCapitals.com), naming Knoxville, Tenn. as the most challenging place to live with spring allergies this year due to high pollen counts, high use of allergy medications by patients and too few allergists to treat the burgeoning allergy population.

This year, the foundation has teamed up with Lowe’s Home Improvement to educate Americans about the importance of indoor air quality and how a few simple steps can help you reduce your exposure to allergens and irritants at home.

“Outdoors in spring is tough so some patients think they can stay indoors to remain safe, but you should be just as concerned about indoor air quality,” stated Beth Corn, assistant professor of medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and past president of the New York Allergy and Asthma Society.

Experts said that reduction of allergens inside the home is an important part of asthma and allergy prevention, the AAFA stated, especially as Americans spend an estimated $10 billion annually on such household products as vacuum cleaners, air cleaners, bedding, toys and flooring.