KEM Hospital, Pune launches Allergy Clinic
With proper treatment and diagnosis people can coexist with allergies without much trouble- Experts
Pune 22 April 2026 : KEM Hospital, Pune today launched a dedicated Allergy Clinic, in an effort towards addressing the rising prevalence of allergic disorders across all age groups. With allergies increasingly becoming a common yet often underdiagnosed health concern, the clinic aims to provide comprehensive care focused on accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment, and long-term management. The initiative is particularly relevant in urban settings, where pollution, changing lifestyles, dietary habits, and reduced exposure to the natural environment have contributed to a noticeable increase in allergy-related conditions.
Dr. Xexes Coyaji, Medical Director, KEM Hospital, Pune; Shirin Wadia, Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Rakesh Shah, Chief Operating Officer; Dr. Ashish Bavdekar, Director, Department of Paediatrics, KEM Hospital, Pune; Dr. Neelam Vaid, HOD – ENT & Big Ears and Allergy Specialists Dr. Bela Gandhi, Dr. Kirti Shrotriya, and Dr. Shubhangi Avhad along with other dignitaries , were present on the occasion.
The newly launched Allergy Clinic at KEM Pune is equipped to offer a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment services. These include detailed allergy evaluation and history-taking, skin prick testing, specific blood tests, pulmonary function testing (for asthma) , and allergen identification. The clinic will also provide personalized treatment plans, immunotherapy (allergy vaccines), and patient counselling to ensure sustained relief and improved quality of life. Modern equipment such as advanced skin prick testing systems, spirometry and pulmonary testing machines, modern allergy blood testing, and nebulisation and emergency management setups further strengthen its capabilities.
Dr. Bela Gandhi, Allergy Specialist at KEM Hospital, Pune , said, allergies are increasingly common today and often underdiagnosed or mismanaged. Many patients continue to suffer for years without identifying the exact trigger. The need for a dedicated allergy clinic arises from the importance of accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment, and long-term management. A specialized clinic helps provide comprehensive care under one roof, improving patients’ quality of life.
With proper treatment and diagnosis people can coexist with allergies without much trouble- Experts
With proper treatment and diagnosis people can coexist with allergies without much trouble, said Dr. Bela Gandhi. Common allergy related issues include allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, nasal blockage), asthma, skin allergies such as urticaria and eczema, along with food and drug allergies, have grown significantly. While on the other hand allergies on the rise include food allergies, especially in children, Chronic urticaria, Severe allergic asthma, environmental allergies due to pollution and climate changes.
Allergies affect all age groups particularly Children and young adults are commonly affected due to early exposure to environmental allergens. Urban populations show higher incidence due to pollution, lifestyle changes, and reduced natural immunity exposure. Factors like increasing pollution, changing diets, indoor lifestyles, and reduced microbial exposure (the “hygiene hypothesis”) all contribute to this rise. These conditions not only impact physical health but also affect daily living, leading to fatigue, poor sleep, reduced productivity at work or school, Recurrent infections, Breathing difficulties in severe cases and emotional stress and reduced quality of life
Living with allergies is entirely manageable with the right approach and consistent care—starting with identifying and avoiding triggers, adhering to prescribed medications, and maintaining good indoor air quality. Using protective measures such as masks in high-pollution environments can further reduce exposure, while a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet help strengthen overall immunity. For those with persistent symptoms, immunotherapy can offer long-term relief, and regular follow-ups with an allergy specialist ensure that treatment remains effective and tailored to individual needs.
Shirin Wadia, CEO KEM Hospital, Pune said that Allergies today are a growing health challenge that require specialized and continuous care. Through this dedicated clinic, we aim to empower patients with the right diagnosis and treatment, while also educating them on managing triggers effectively so they can lead normal, active lives.