What Are Allergies

What Are Allergies—and Who Gets Them?

Allergies are reactions of our immune system to something that’s usually harmless, like pollen, mold, or even your pet. Instead of ignoring it, your body goes into defense mode and releases histamines, which trigger all the uncomfortable reactions like sneezing, itching, congestion, and more.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), over 50 million people in the U.S. experience various types of allergies each year, making it one of the country’s most common chronic conditions. 

But here’s the kicker: research shows that Black and Latinx populations are more likely to live in areas with higher exposure to indoor and outdoor allergens—like mold, pests, and air pollution. A 2021 study from JAMA Pediatrics found that Latinx children had lower rates of being diagnosed or treated for allergies compared to white children, despite having equal or higher symptom burdens. 

Bottom line: allergies don’t discriminate, but access to diagnosis and care often does.