Pollen are tiny but powerful particles that affect the lives of many people. Especially in the spring and summer months, the concentration of pollen in the air increases, which can lead to a variety of health problems. In this article, we would like to raise awareness of the problem of pollen and show how building air filters and cabin air filters for vehicles can effectively protect against these invisible intruders.

The effects of pollen on health

Pollen is the male reproductive cells of plants and is spread by wind, insects or other mechanisms. For many people, however, they are more than just a natural part of the ecosystem - they are a source of discomfort and health complaints.

Allergic reactions caused by pollen

One of the most common effects of pollen is the so-called pollen allergy or hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Those affected suffer from symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose, skin rashes and itching as well as breathing difficulties and asthma attacks.

These symptoms can significantly impair quality of life and make everyday life a challenge.

Long-term health risks from pollen

In the long term, recurring pollen allergies can lead to chronic respiratory diseases. Asthma is one of the most common complications that can be exacerbated by regular exposure to pollen. Allergies can also lead to sleep disorders, impaired mental health and reduced well-being. In addition, there are significant health costs to global ^economies1.

Social and economic impact

Due to the symptoms mentioned above, pollen allergies can affect productivity at work and school performance. Studies from the USA report a 21 percent drop in ^{productivity2} and four million days of absence per year. This costs US companies more than 250 million dollars a year due to increased absenteeism and reduced productivity. In economic terms, the annual cost of asthma in the US amounts to 80 billion US dollars, of which 50 billion is for medical costs and three billion US dollars for lost working and ^school days3.

In Europe, the prevalence of pollen allergies is estimated at 40 percent of the total ^population4 and the cost of pollen allergies at around 130 billion euros per ^year5. Further studies show that high pollen levels can reduce consumption by around two to three percent, as people go out less and consume less.

These are already frightening figures. But climate change and global warming will increase this as the pollen season lengthens and pollen concentrations ^increase6. This will inevitably lead to worse symptoms and even greater social and economic ^effects1.

How filters can help against pollen

Fortunately, there are effective measures to reduce exposure to pollen. High-quality air filters in buildings and cabin air filters in vehicles can make a significant contribution to improving air quality.

Building air filters ensure clean air indoors

Modern building air filters are designed to remove the smallest particles, including pollen, from the air. They work with advanced filtration technologies such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which effectively capture even the smallest pollen particles.

Building air filters reduce the concentration of pollen indoors and allow allergy sufferers to breathe easy thanks to fewer symptoms. In addition to pollen, these systems also filter out other pollutants such as dust, mold spores and bacteria, resulting in better indoor air quality overall.