As climate change continues many countries will have to deal with more frequent and severe wildfires, but one result of this not often discussed is risk to those with asthma and allergies.

As we enter the final month of summer in the northern hemisphere wildfires have been raging in a number of countries where hot and dry conditions prevail.

Throughtout the month of August ferocious wildfires ravaged the surrounding areas of Greece's capital, Athens. According to the European Commission the fires destroyed approximately 21,000 hectares of pines, olive grove, brush and farmland. Thousands of residents had to abandon their homes to escape the smoke and flames.

A new study looking at the prevalence of both asthma and chemical hypersensitivity in the United States has found a significant overlap between the two conditions.

The study published in the journal Toxicology and Industrial Health interviewed people from across the US to determine the national prevalence of asthma and chemical hypersensitivity and uncover any links between the two conditions.

The researchers from the Environmental Studies department at the University of West Georgia gathered data from a random sample of 1058 people from across the continental US. The sample was weighted so that roughly equal numbers of people from different states were included in the study.

Researchers have found a link between low blood folate levels, allergic reactions, and asthma; suggesting folic acid supplements may benefit sufferers.

According to findings of a study conducted at John Hopkins Childrens Center, folic acid or vitamin B9, which is essential for red blood cell health, replication of genetic material, and prevention of birth defects, may also suppress allergic reactions and reduce the sevrity of allergy and asthma symptoms.

This large study of over 8000 people is believed to be the first to examine the relationship between blood folate levels and the incidence and severity of allergic conditions in humans. Folate is the naturally occuring form of folic acid found in the human body.

New research reveals that those with contact allergies such as atopic dermatitis may have their symptoms triggered by natural fragrances as well as the synthetic varieties.

It has long been known that synthetic fragrances and perfumed products such as dish washing liquid and laundry detergent are common causes for the skin allergies that cause conditions such as atopic dermatitis and eczema.

In fact hypersensitivity to synthetic fragrances is one of the leading causes of allergy in adults.

It had been assumed by many however, including doctors and patients, that natural alternatives using essential oils were safe for those affected by these skin diseases. Research conducted at the University of Gothenberg, Sweden, has now cast doubt on this assumption.