Every season can be allergy season, depending on what you are allergic to. Some would describe allergic disease as 'the epidemic of the 21st century'. It is estimated that by 2025 half of the entire EU population will have some type of allergy. Allergies, also known as allergic diseases, are a number of conditions caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system. Common causes of allergy symptoms include food allergies, such as peanut allergy, and seasonal allergies resulting from grass, weed, tree pollen, insect bites or various moulds. Pet allergies can also cause miserable symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion and wheezing, while allergic skin conditions can cause a rash and itchy skin.
Professor Dean has spent nearly three decades researching different aspect of allergic diseases. Her research has spanned from developing a better understanding of the mechanisms which trigger an allergic reaction to establishing how common it is among the UK population, what are the risk factors and how can it be managed and prevented.
By drawing upon some of her most significant research, Professor Dean’s inaugural lecture offers key reflections on her research and career to date.