Hayfever cases soar as sales of remedies rise by 177%
The Scotsman
May 9, 2007

URBAN pollution is increasing the pollen count and forcing thousands more people to resort to hayfever remedies, a survey revealed yesterday.

The poll showed a 146 per cent increase in hayfever remedy sales compared to this time last year, with a staggering 177 per cent rise in inner-city areas.

Pharmacists dubbed the phenomenon "greyfever" because it is believed trees in towns and cities are producing more pollen due to the effects of pollution.

Plane and birch trees - which are commonly found in streets and parks in urban areas - are particularly responsible for the increased pollen count.

Environmental pollution is also believed to make it less likely airborne allergens will disperse, raising concentrations in built-up areas even further.

According to the research, "greyfever" is stopping people in towns and cities from enjoying the UK's growing café culture.

Nearly a quarter of people living in urban areas polled said they avoided eating and drinking outdoors despite the good weather.