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Assessing a patient's allergies before anesthesia is crucial primarily to prevent adverse reactions during and after the procedure. Understanding a patient's allergy history allows the healthcare team to identify any potential allergens that could trigger an allergic response, such as specific anesthetic agents, medications, or other substances used in the perioperative environment.

Preventing adverse reactions is vital because they can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to life-threatening situations such as anaphylaxis. Effective assessment and communication regarding allergies help ensure that alternatives are available or that proper precautions are taken, ultimately safeguarding the patient's health during anesthesia and throughout the surgical process.

While factors like patient comfort, avoidance of surgical complications, and medication dosage are important considerations, they are secondary to the critical need to safeguard against any immediate and severe health risks posed by allergic reactions.