Isle Of Wight Asthma And Allergy Research Centre Marks 30 Years

An Isle of Wight research centre whose work has contributed to the global understanding of asthma and allergies is marking 30 years since its dedicated building opened.

The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, part of Isle of Wight NHS Trust, has been based at the facility since 1996, although its research programme began several years earlier.

Its work includes the Isle of Wight Birth Cohort study, which has tracked generations of Island families and is among the world's longest-running studies into asthma and allergy.

Research carried out by the centre has examined how the conditions develop, potential risk factors and whether interventions early in life could help prevent disease.

The centre also provides specialist NHS allergy services and has trained healthcare professionals and researchers from around the world.

Director Professor Hasan Arshad said studies carried out on the Island had made a global impact, with further work aiming to improve the lives of people with asthma and food allergies.

Fellow director Professor Graham Roberts said findings from Isle of Wight studies are regularly referenced by experts at international meetings.