According to a new study, the number of people suffering from hay fever in Germany increased noticeably between 2011 and 2021. During this period, the number of pollen allergy sufferers increased by 11.5 percent, as reported by the KKH commercial health insurance company in Hanover on Wednesday. Women are affected more often than men. With over 1.6 million insured persons, the KKH is one of the largest nationwide statutory health insurers.
For the study, the health insurance company evaluated nationwide data from its policyholders. In 2021, a total of 95,233 patients insured with the KKH were recorded with a diagnosis of pollen-related hay fever. The proportion of hay fever patients in the insured population was 5.0 percent in 2011, 5.2 percent in 2016 and 5.6 percent in 2021.
According to the information, flying tree and grass pollen trigger an allergic reaction in the mucous membranes of the nose, bronchi and eyes in those affected. The body releases so-called histamines, which cause sneezing attacks, itchy eyes and a runny nose. The health insurance company warned that it was important to quickly identify and treat hay fever. Left untreated, hay fever can worsen and lead to chronic asthma. Climate change is also causing the pollen season to get longer and longer.
Particularly noticeable according to the KKH: In the past 10 years, middle-aged adults in particular have been frequently diagnosed with hay fever. In the 50- to 59-year-old age group, the number of those affected rose by about a third, and in the 70- to 74-year-olds it almost doubled. According to the health insurance company, allergies are an additional burden on the immune system, especially for older people.
Pollen count calendar
