Central Queensland University Mackay nursing lecturer Pam Savage highlighted popular misconceptions relating to environmental and food allergies at a public lecture recently.

The topic developed from another lecture presented by Ms Savage and the CQU Foundation Group in 2002.

“Often people don’t get a full explanation of diseases, prevention strategies and what actually constitutes an allergy,” she said.

“Food allergies in particular are often blamed by people when in fact it is a food intolerance or sensitivity that is the problem, not a true allergy." “Helping people identify the sources of actual or possible allergens and see how they can take steps to avoid or minimise their risks is a step towards maximising health." Prevention of acute allergies, information relating to general debilitating environmental symptoms and food reactions provided the focus for the lecture.

Photo caption: CQU Mackay nursing lecturer Pam Savage discussed allergies at a recent public lecture.