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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 92 plant species to be included in PH study on allergenic airborne pollen in Ilocos Norte

92 plant species to be included in PH study on allergenic airborne pollen in Ilocos Norte

Published Jan 8, 2022 02:09 pm

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said 92 plant species were to be included in a two-year research study seeking to identify possible allergenic airborne pollen in Ilocos Norte.

(Photo by Kym MacKinnon on Unsplash)

DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña said the study is supported by the DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research

and Development (PCHRD) and is designed “to identify the characteristics, seasonality, and allergenic properties of various airborne pollen in Ilocos Norte.”

“Currently, the research team has identified 92 plant species to be included in the study which will be observed for a three-month period for their flowering and fruiting cycles,” he said in a taped report on Friday, Jan. 7.

The project is implemented to address the communities’ increased risk of allergic respiratory diseases following the extended periods of pollen production and airborne pollen dispersal due to early flowering of plants fired up by climate change.

"Among the effects of climate change is the early flowering of plants which causes extended periods of pollen production and airborne pollen dispersal. With this, communities are more exposed to possible pollen allergens, resulting in an increased risk of allergic respiratory diseases,” the DOST chief said.

The study, “Seasonal Distribution of Allergenicity of Airborne Pollen in Ilocos Norte, Philippines,” is led by Dr. Maureen B. Sabit of the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

De la Peña said the study "will generate crucial information about airborne pollen to educate the public on the possible causes and sources of pollen-

related allergies and serve as a guide in managing allergic diseases.”

“Aside from the characterization of possible allergenic airborne pollen, the project will also develop technologies that will forecast airborne pollen concentrations, enabling accurate diagnosis and creation of preventive measures for pollen allergies,” he added.

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