The concept of environmental injustice in allergy and asthma

Purpose of review This review examines how environmental injustice contributes to disparities in allergic diseases, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis. It focuses on the role of social, geographic, and economic inequities in shaping disease prevalence, severity, and access to care among underrepresented racial and ethnic communities. Recent findings Recent studies emphasize the persistent exposure of low-income and racially marginalized populations to environmental hazards such as air pollution, substandard housing, and climate-related changes, factors that are linked to increased prevalence and severity of allergic diseases. While environmental policies have led to overall improvements in air quality, disparities in exposure and outcomes persist. Emerging policies show promise in reducing these gaps through more equitable and inclusive approaches. Summary Environmental injustice is a key driver of health disparities in allergic diseases and asthma. Structural inequities continue to place marginalized communities at higher risk of harmful exposures and adverse health outcomes. Addressing these disparities requires collaboration between policymakers, healthcare workers, researchers, and affected communities.