AmbTrack: A CLINICALLY RELEVANT BRIDGE BETWEEN RURAL POLLEN SOURCES AND URBAN ALLERGY CHALLENGES

Abstract

Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) is a highly potent aeroallergen whose season in Europe typically overlaps with the period of the most significant burden of allergic rhinitis and acute asthma exacerbations. In clinical practice, a paradox is often observed whereby patients living in urban environments report more severe symptoms than rural populations, although the primary ragweed source areas are most often located outside cities. This review focuses on the clinical implications of the rural–urban exposure gradient. It presents the AmbTrack project (Real-Time Monitoring and Molecular Characterisation of Ambrosia Pollen Exposure through Citizen Tracking) as a conceptual and operational framework that integrates aerobiological monitoring, meteorological conditions, air pollution, remote sensing, and symptom reporting via mobile tools, together with ragweed location data and the individual's current health status as affected by ragweed allergy. The key message for clinical practice is that pollen in urban settings does not behave as a "neutral" biological particle, as interactions with air pollution (particulate matter - PM, NO₂, O₃), urban heat islands, and the micro-aerodynamics of streets may increase clinical burden and prolong exposure duration. Conceptually, AmbTrack enables timely alerts and supports a shift from reactive to preventive therapy, with the potential to improve patient management, promote more rational medication use, and reduce socio-economic consequences.