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During the last two decades the increase in allergic diseases in children, such as atopic dermatitis and asthma, has been drastic. However, this is not true for the entire world: the incidence of allergies in children has risen only in developed countries. The observation of this socio-geographic discrepancy has led to careful study of the environmental differences that exist between the diverse settings in which children are born and has resulted in the so-called 'hygiene hypothesis': the 'sterility' of modern hospitals and birth places in the developed world might lead to a lack of microbial stimulation required for the development of a balanced mucosal immune response, including expansion of T-helper (Th) cell subsets that can mediate immune responses. Therefore, this workshop was held to consider in depth the environmental factors that influence the changing pattern of worldwide childhood allergy. This publication is a valuable source of knowledge and update for nutritionists, pediatricians, immunologists, microbiologists, as well as professionals concerned with preventive medicine.
We acknowledge the initiation and support of this Research Topic by the International Union of Immunological Societies (IUIS). We hereby state publicly that the IUIS has had no editorial input in articles included in this Research Topic, thus ensuring that all aspects of this Research Topic are evaluated objectively, unbiased by any specific policy or opinion of the IUI.