Pollen Allergies in Romania: Optimizing Data Analysis and Raising Awareness

Schaeffer, Tobias R.; Kay, Deanna M.; Kelly, Jessica Marie; Tam Tuong, Thi Thanh

Student Work

Pollen Allergies in Romania: Optimizing Data Analysis and Raising Awareness Public

As pollen allergies rise in Romania, allergists saw a lack of research in this field. Our project aimed to optimize analysis, correlate between pollen allergies and environmental factors, and raise awareness. We programmed a tool to manage data on pollen, climate, and pollutants, developed a lifestyle survey, and correlated factors. We correlated grass pollen to O3 and Ambrosia pollen to humidity and CO. Interest in search terms “Ragweed” and “Allergy” correlated with many factors. A comparison to other countries found mostly consistent results. Many survey respondents have allergy symptoms in the Ambrosia season, even at work. We conclude allergies worsen during arid periods, and O3 is inflammatory. Further pollen collection is needed to confirm correlations and forecast pollen levels.

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