What Parents Need To Know About Rising Allergies In Malaysian Children

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 18 (Bernama) -- Childhood allergies are on the rise in Malaysia, with paediatric specialists warning that the trend is becoming a significant public health concern as more young children experience reactions triggered by dust mites, food allergens and environmental pollutants.

Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Respiratory Specialist at Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) in Sunway City, Dr Noor Zehan Abdul Rahim said an estimated one in five Malaysian children may develop allergies, a trend driven largely by urban living and higher exposure to both indoor and outdoor allergens.

"Allergies are more than just sneezes or skin rashes, they can deeply affect a child’s quality of life. Urban living exposes children to higher allergens like dust mites, smoke, and pollution. While parents can’t control everything, they can take steps to make their homes safer havens," she said in a statement.

Dr Noor Zehan said dust mites remain the most common allergen in Malaysia, thriving in humid conditions and accumulating in bedding, carpets and soft furnishings.

She said pet dander, pollen, mould and certain foods such as peanuts, shellfish and milk also contribute to the rising number of allergy cases.

She added that symptoms can vary and typically appear between two to three years of age, although food allergies may develop as early as six months, while respiratory allergies often emerge around the age of five or six.

According to her, parents should pay close attention to persistent or recurrent symptoms including sneeze coughing, wheezing, nasal blockage, skin rashes, vomiting or diarrhoea, and to keep a symptom diary to help identify patterns.

"Parents should watch for recurring symptoms and if a child frequently reacts after eating certain foods or being in specific environments, it’s worth investigating further," she said.

Dr Noor Zehan said untreated allergies can progress into more serious conditions such chronic sinusitis and asthma, which disrupt a child’s sleep, focus, and everyday activities.

Malaysia has seen a worrying increase in childhood asthma, with prevalence rising from 6.4 per cent to 9.4 per cent among children aged six to seven, and from 9 percent to 13 percent among adolescents aged 13 to 14.

"Asthma triggered by untreated allergies can be life-altering if not properly managed. It’s heartbreaking to see children struggle with something that can often be prevented or controlled," she said.

To reduce allergen exposure, she advised parents to use dust-mite-proof bedding covers, vacuum with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, avoid smoke exposure, manage pet allergens carefully, introduce allergenic foods between four and six months under medical guidance and avoid fragrances or chemical-based product that may irritate sensitive airways.

Dr Noor Zehan also addressed common misconceptions, including assumptions that all children eventually outgrow allergies, and reassured parents that inhalers are not addictive.

"Inhalers are not addictive. They are life-changing tools that help children breathe freely and thrive. As conditions improve, reliance on medication can be gradually reduced,” she explained.

She also informed that pandemic-era reduced exposure to infections temporarily eased respiratory symptoms but also limited opportunities for immunity-building among children, resulting them more vulnerable post-COVID.

Therefore, she advised parents to balance hygiene with gradual reintroduce the childern to diverse environments to rebuild immunity, allows to identify potential allergens while recommending regular paediatric check-ups for early detection and treatment.

"The early years are crucial for long-term health. Stay informed, take action, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Every step you take now will help your child live a healthier, happier life," she added.

-- BERNAMA