Investigation of medication dosage influences from biological weather

Abstract

Airborne pollen has been associated with allergic symptoms in sensitized individuals, whereas atmospheric pollution indisputably aggravates the impact on the overall quality of life. Therefore, it is of major importance to correlate, forecast and disseminate information concerning high concentration levels of allergic pollen types and air pollutants to the public, in order to safeguard the quality of life of the population. In this study, we investigate the relationship between the Defined Daily Dose (DDD) given to patients in a triggered allergy reaction and the different levels of air pollutants and pollen types. By profiling specific atmospheric conditions, specialists may define the need for medication to individuals suffering from pollen allergy, not only according to their personal medical record but also to the existing air quality observations. Paper results indicate some interesting interrelationships between the use of medication and atmospheric quality conditions and shows that the forecasting of daily medication is possible with the aid of proper algorithms. © 2011 International Federation for Information Processing.