(英会話リスニングスクリプト)
About this time of year, the Japanese cedar
releases a pollen that has a terrible effect on one in five
of the population.
Although Japanese cedars have been growing
here for thousands of years, the related allergy was not
identified until 1964.
A recent survey in Tokyo found that 19.4%
of the population are affected, up from 7% in 1983.
Scientists believe that this increase is
due to global warming; the warmer it is, the more pollen
is released by the trees.
It seems that as long as global warming
gets worse, so will the pollen problem.
Furthermore, it has been found that pollen
attaches itself to pollutants, so, as pollution increases
worldwide, so do various allergies, causing hay fever, rashes
and other health problems.
Experts say that it is possible to fight
Japanese cedar allergies.
Sufferers have to follow the pollen forecasts
to avoid unnecessary exposure and use air cleaners indoors.
Outside they have to wear an allergy mask,
a raincoat, goggles, and a hat to stop the pollen getting
in their hair.
The only problem is that you look like a
bank robber and none of your friends recognize you!
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