The world has never witnessed the kind of rapid economic development and urbanization as what is happening in China.Along with such rapid changes,there is dramatic rise in the prevalence of the diseases which used to be relatively uncommon.Among these diseases,allergic disorders including asthma,allergic rhinitis,eczema,and food allergies will become the most common chronic diseases affecting millions of adults and children in China.In the Western world,one out of three persons is affected by at least one allergic disorder.Such epidemic is already happening in the cities of China.For example,at least one in 10 adolescents from Guangzhou suffers from allergic rhinitis.A one percent increase of childhood asthma in China will result in 3 million more children with asthma.The associated economic and social cost is daunting.It is extremely important for researchers in China to joint effort to fight this epidemic.Inappropriate use of antibiotics is common in the treatment of asthma and related conditions.This practice has resulted in major problem of antibiotic resistance across many regions of China.We will need to carry out systematic studies to tease out the important protective and risk factors associated with the development of asthma and allergies in Chinese.At the same time,we will need to have appropriate program to train young doctors and nurses to improve the level of care in terms of accurate diagnosis,monitoring and treatment of these allergic conditions.Hainan is one of the fastest developing regions of China.With it’s tropical climate,dust-mite is one of the most important allergens on the island and Hainan also provides excellent opportunities for research into the early origins of allergy.Effective training and research are the only ways forward in improving the lives of millions affected by asthma and allergies across the country.

Prof.Gary WK Wong

Prof.and Honorary Consultant

Department of Pediatrics and School of Public Health

Chinese University of Hong Kong

Prince of Wales Hospital

May 1,2011