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Study finds genetic link to allergies

Allergies are a common condition worldwide, whether individuals are inflicted with an undesirable reaction to pollen, dust mites or animals, there are many factors that can cause the symptoms. Looking into the genetics behind allergy development has grown increasingly popular over the years, since there is such a high occurrence of allergies being passed down from generation to generation. In fact, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, a child born to one parent with allergies has a 33 percent chance of also developing the condition, while if both parents have allergies, their offspring has a 70 percent chance of having similar allergies. 

While it's well known that taking OTC medication or investing in an air purifier like the IQAir HealthPro Plus can ease symptoms, a new study finds allergies may be more genetic-based than previously thought. The study, published in Nature Genetics, discovered 16 new genetic regions are related to common allergies including dust, pollen and cat fur. 

Researchers from the University of Bristol reviewed the results of two previously conducted studies to come up with the latest findings. John Henderson, a scientist who worked on the trials, believes the data may improve the lives of allergy patients in the future. 

"... This is a very exciting time for allergy research. Genetic discoveries have identified specific pathways of allergy development that are not shared with allergic diseases like asthma," said Henderson. "Understanding these pathways could lead to eventual development of drugs that cure or prevent allergy rather than just suppressing its symptoms."