UK Regional Variations in Betula Pollen (1993-1997)

Abstract

Betula pollen is known to be an important aeroallergen in Europe and the UK, with very large quantities of pollen released into the air at the height of the season, making it the most abundant tree pollen present in the UK spring air. There has been long term pollen monitoring in Cardiff, Derby and London but in recent years the number of regional sites has increased. Seven sites throughout the UK have monitored Betula pollen using Burkard samplers for the period 1993–1997 and for this study regional differences in Betula pollen and climate were investigated. Detailed analysis revealed considerable variation in the start dates, duration and quantity of Betula pollen for the seven UK sites throughout the five year period. These regional variations in Betula pollen duration and intensity of season, indicate the importance of maintaining sites throughout the UK as an aid to clinicians, researchers and the general public.