Understanding the problem

Around 18 million people in the UK suffer from hayfever and it is estimated that this number will soar to 31.8 million by 2030. This rise is being linked to air pollution and the effect of climate change, as increases in environmental temperature can lead to more pollen-bearing plants and the hayfever season starting earlier.

Almost a third of hayfever sufferers report that their symptoms have become more severe in recent years and more than one in 10 say they have stopped going out altogether during peak pollen times.

The majority of hayfever sufferers seek relief from the condition by going to their pharmacy, with an average of 22 patients a week making such a visit during a typical hayfever season, compared with 15.5 patients who see their GP.

Some 85 per cent of sufferers admit that they haven’t changed their treatment approach for three years or more, despite their symptoms becoming more severe.