Cockroaches have been found to be a significant trigger of allergies and asthma. Asthma has been increasing over the past several years, resulting in frequent hospital admissions especially of inner-city children with asthma after exposure to cockroach allergen. The exact reason for the increase in asthma attacks related to cockroach is not known, but some researchers attribute the increased incidence to children spending more time indoors than they use to.

The cockroach allergen is found in the feces, saliva and body of the insect. Cockroaches are found in homes all over the world. If one cockroach is seen in the home, there may be hundreds more out of sight. Cockroaches can be carried into the home in grocery bags, furniture and luggage. One they get into a home, they are hard to eradicate. 

Symptoms related to cockroach allergy may range from mildly itchy skin, scratchy throat, itchy eyes and nose to more severe symptoms involving asthma. Symptoms related to cockroach allergy may be experienced year-round.