Watsons’ public forum on managing allergies

WATSONS Malaysia and Bayer Co (Malaysia) are co-organising a free public health forum aimed at heightening public awareness of allergy-related problems and helping sufferers cope with their afflictions.

Themed ‘Living with Allergies’, the forum is happening this Nov 10 at Royale Chulan Damansara’s Mutiara Ballroom from 2pm to 5.15pm.

On the panel are Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur Allergy & Immunology and Internal Medicine consultant Dr Kent Woo, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur clinical hypnotherapist and mindfulness therapist Ko Teik Yen, and National Heart Institute chief dietitian Mary Easaw.

While Malaysians are no stranger to allergies, many of them still do not understand why and what they are allergic to. Even though most allergies are neither life-threatening nor contagious, they can, however, be debilitating and adversely impact the patients’ quality of life. Serious and uncontrolled forms of allergies can lead to unconsciousness and, sometimes, can be fatal.

Woo says: “The prevalence of allergies worldwide has spiked over the past decade; experts have equated the spread to an epidemic-like situation. Depending on the types of allergic disease as well as the age groups, it is estimated that 10%-40% of the global population is affected by one or more allergic conditions, and this figure is expected to grow in the face of rapid urbanisation.

“In view of this, allergy is fast becoming a major healthcare problem. The public needs to learn more about their allergies and take preventive measures to avoid an allergic reaction.”

The forum will also address the links among allergic diseases, psychological distress and stress. These associations have crucial implications for quality of life and disease management.

Ko explains that allergy symptoms, while common, can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing for patients due to the nasty appearance of a rash and associated itch that can persists for years.

He adds that with appropriate training and practice, patients can minimise the detrimental effects of their allergic conditions on their quality of life.

Watsons Malaysia managing director Caryn Loh says that the forum is one way for Watsons to educate consumers as well as provide an opportunity for the company to interact and engage with its customers.

For those interested, book a seat by emailing your name, mobile number (for SMS reminder) and the number of people attending to livingandallergies@ gmail.com or register with the pharmacists at any Watsons store in the Klang Valley.

Seats are on a first-come-first-serve basis. Registration closes on Oct 31. Registered participants will receive a door gift worth RM128.