Population-based studies on atopy in Greenland

Abstract

Allergic diseases are reported to be increasing in the Western world, although few studies have used objective measurements of allergy to document the increase. Reasons for the increase are largely unknown, but factors related to the Western lifestyle are considered to be of importance. In particular, attention has been drawn to the possible role of a reduced microbial stimulation of our immune system with infections and vaccinations. During the last decades, Inuit populations have undergone dramatic changes regarding occupation, housing and living conditions, and the composition of their diet. These changes have already led to an increase in certain diseases believed to be associated with a Western lifestyle e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancers. However, little is known about the development of allergic diseases in Inuit populations.