AAFA’s 2024 Allergy Capitals Report: climate change makes living with allergies a challenge

About This Project

Summary

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s (AAFA) Allergy Capitals report details the most challenging cities in the U.S. for living with allergies and provides insight into the factors impacting seasonal allergies. Through the report, AAFA seeks to offer advice for seasonal allergy management and suggest ways policymakers can work to improve public health. The 2024 report calls attention to the urgency of the climate crisis, which is making allergy seasons longer and more intense.

Goals & Objectives

AAFA aims to raise public awareness of pollen allergies and the impact of climate change on pollen production, and to educate and advocate for the more than 80 million people in the U.S. affected by pollen allergy through digital platforms and public relations efforts – including earned media.

Results & Impact

AAFA’s report generates interest on local, regional, national media outlets (such as USA Today, Newsweek, CBS) with significant media reach (3.6 billion) and mentions (2,500) in 2024 so far. The research and report have led to increased pollen monitoring and improved AI pollen counting capabilities.