Pollen and fungal spore monitoring will find solutions for those with respiratory and allergic diseases.
The Espiritu Santo University Research Center started up an aerobiology station to collect and evaluate pollen and fungal spores present in the environment, a pioneering project in the country, which will allow better treatment for those suffering from respiratory and allergic diseases.
“Currently, due to climate change, this type of disease has increased and more than 15 % of the world's population is allergic to pollen, reaching 30 % among young people. Therefore, it is essential to know the existing species, their characteristics, allergenic capacity and distribution in the country”, says Fernando Espinoza, director of the Research Center.
Pollen counts allow us to know more precisely when patients should begin and end their prophylactic treatment, to better plan travel for allergy sufferers and to better understand the variability in the intensity of symptoms from one year to another and from one geographical area to another.
“This measurement is an innovative and essential tool in allergy management, improving the quality of life of allergic patients and their ability to fully enjoy their daily activities,” explains Espinoza.
The project led by Iván Chérrez - Ojeda will last 5 years and its results will facilitate the creation of a pollen calendar of the city, provide useful information to visitors with allergic history, predict the severity of pollinosis and take preventive measures.
With this development, the UEES seeks to contribute to the respiratory and allergic health of the Ecuadorian population and to enrich the evidence-based knowledge of Ecuadorian palynology through the publication of several scientific articles and participation in international congresses.
In the photos: The aerobiology station located at UEESPARK and the aerobiology course given at UEES by Germán Darío Ramón and Laura Beatriz Barrionuevo of the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology (AAAAI).
Universidad Espíritu Santo (UEES), began its academic activities in 1994 as a private, self-financed, non-profit institution. Its spirit of commitment and constant innovation are present in the quality of the service it offers to its community.
