A review of aeropalynology research in Nigeria: implication on public health and environmental research collaboration

Abstract

Background: Aeropalynology is a branch of palynology that studies the content of atmospheric pollen grains and spores. The amount, concentration, and distribution of these aerospora are influenced by the seasonal flowering of parent plants and variations in climatic conditions as well as local and regional variabilities. Atmospheric pollen grains and spores are diverse and have been identified as major biological particles that trigger immune cells to release inflammatory chemical mediators, inducing respiratory-linked and allergic conditions, such as pollinosis, among susceptible individuals. Objective: The burden of these allergic conditions on patients, families, healthcare systems, and governments has risen globally, thereby affecting developing countries, including Nigeria, wherein the financial and infrastructural institutions are not effective enough to mitigate these challenges. Avoidance of allergenic aerospora is an effective mode of addressing pollinosis with its associated conditions. However, there is a need to ascertain the atmospheric quantity, diversity, and pattern of occurrence of allergenic pollen/spores. Results: In this paper, we reviewed published articles on aeropalynology in Nigeria with attention to the design and duration of the study and the used equipment. We further investigated whether identification and quantification of allergy-causing palynomorphs was part of published articles’ foci. Conclusion: The availability of such data/information is crucial for reducing epidemiological uncertainties, enhancing the diagnosis of allergic conditions, and securing a robust set of mitigation strategies and/or effective treatment of these conditions in Nigeria.