[For Seniors] Trivia Quiz & Fun Facts on Hay Fever: Learn Prevention Methods and Symptoms You Should Know

There are more women.

According to recent surveys by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and others, the prevalence of hay fever tends to be slightly higher among women than men. It is also notable that among women, the proportion is higher in those in their 20s to 50s.

Japanese cedar (sugi)

In Japan, cedar pollen is the most prevalent, and the number of people with hay fever is overwhelmingly high. Every year in early spring, large amounts of cedar pollen are dispersed, and many people suffer from symptoms. Although cedar has long grown in Japan, it is believed that the increase in hay fever cases is due to the massive reforestation that began in the 1950s, which boosted the amount of pollen released.

Hang the laundry outside

If you hang your laundry outside during peak pollen season, pollen will stick to your clothes. Bringing those clothes into the house will bring the pollen inside as well. During pollen season, avoid drying laundry outdoors and opt for indoor drying.

more than 60 types

In Japan, not only Japanese cedar and cypress but also many other plants—such as white birch, grasses, and ragweed—cause hay fever. It is said there are more than 60 such species. Because various types of pollen are in the air throughout the year, people with hay fever need to be especially careful.

Because immune responses are repeated.

When pollen enters the body of someone with hay fever, the immune system overreacts and triggers various symptoms. This response is recorded each year, and when the same pollen starts to disperse in subsequent years, the reaction occurs automatically.