The LIH and the Luxembourg Allergy Network Sign a Memorandum to Strengthen Allergy Awareness and Patient Support

• Molecular and Translational Allergology
• Department of Infection and Immunity

From left, LAN representatives Tamara Smit and Filipa Grancho, with Christiane Hilger, and Annette Kuehn, leaders of the Molecular & Translational Allergology group.

The Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Luxembourg Allergy Network (LAN), marking a significant collaboration aimed at advancing allergy awareness, patient support, and scientific engagement across Luxembourg.

The LAN, a patient organization dedicated to allergies, is actively involved in supporting those living with allergies, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion for affected individuals and families. The group has strong ties with the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL) and is now expanding its efforts via this new partnership with the LIH.

At the forefront of the LIH’s work in allergy research is the Molecular & Translational Allergology group, led by Annette Kuehn and Christiane Hilger. During Healthcare Week Luxembourg, held on October 1-2, the team presented their research on the drivers of allergic diseases, the burden of allergies in Luxembourg, and their ongoing efforts to develop new solutions for patients based on advanced immune system analysis via close collaboration with clinical partners.

Starting in late 2024, the two organizations will work together to pursue key goals, including raising awareness about allergies, fostering inclusion, and providing support to allergy sufferers and their families. Additionally, the partnership will focus on scientific outreach and community engagement by organizing workshops, seminars, and public forums to educate the public, with a special emphasis on food allergies.

This MoU represents a first and major step forward in addressing the growing impact of allergies on the Luxembourg population, combining the scientific expertise of the LIH with the community outreach and advocacy strengths of the LAN.