Jan

22

Allergic Diseases To Overtake Infectious Diseases In Developing Countries

Filed Under Eczema Allergy, Eczema Child, Eczema Facts, Eczema News, Eczema Treatment | Leave a Comment

With the start of a new year, most of us would wish for better health and less pervalene of diseases in the world. However, going by the latest research study tracking the number of cases of childhood eczema, this does not seem the situation. Not at least for allergic diseases.

Experts are warning policy makers that allergic disease might replace infectious disease as a major cause of ill health in cities undergoing rapid demographic changes in developing countries. The cause of eczema in these cities is blamed on environmental factors.

In developed countries like the UK and New Zealand, where childhood eczema was once pervalent, the number of [tag-tec]eczema[/tag-tec] cases in children are levelling off. However, it is those in the developing countries that are showing rapid increases in the number of children having skin problems. These countries include Mexico, Chile, Kenya, Algeria and 7 countries in Southeast Asia. Environmental factors are cited as the reason as it is highly unlikely that genetic factors would change in such a short time.

If environmental factors are said to be the cause of eczema, then this becomes a matter of public health. Severe [tag-dtec]eczema[/tag-dtec] can reduce the quality of life for patients suffering from constant itching and scratching. More needs to be done by the governments around before more of our children suffer.

Industrialization can bring in money and hope to developing countries but let’s not forget that there may be a social cost involved. I have no doubt that pollution to the air and/or to the water is a significant environmental factor that contributes to the cause of eczema.

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Jan

18

New Leather Sofa Sets Off Eczema Rash

Filed Under Eczema Allergy, Eczema Causes, Eczema News | 2 Comments

SofaConsidering a furniture overhaul with a new set of shiny leather sofa, which you have been eyeing for months? Well, if you are an [tag-tec]eczema[/tag-tec] sufferer, then this is news that you do not want to miss.

Doctors in the UK have reported a sudden increase in the number of patients complaining about eczema rash. On investigation, it is found that these patients have recently bought themselves new leather sofas. At last count, doctors have treated more than 130 people who suddenly developed the skin disorder.

On further investigation, it seems all the sofas came from the same manufacturer in China. It is now suspected that the sofas may contain an allergen never seen before. Studies are still being conducted to determine what this allergen is.

I consider it great that the British can pinpoint the source of the problem so quickly. I am not sure though if a refund can be requested based on [tag-ice]eczema[/tag-ice] reasons. Unfortunately, I have also been unable to find out the name of the manufacturer from China, producing the sofas. But one thing is for sure….either buy sofas made elsewhere or hold off your purchase for the time being, if you intend to get new leather seats for your home.

(Source: British Medical Journal, 2008; 336: 104).

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