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Atopy in Norwegian and Russian adults: a population-based study from the common border area
T Smith-Sivertsen1, V Tchachtchine, E Lund
1Institute of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø.
Allergy
|April 24, 2003
Summary
IgE sensitization was more prevalent in Russian adults than in Norwegians, contrary to East-West European trends. This suggests differing allergy awareness, highlighting the need for objective atopy markers in population studies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Atopy prevalence differs between Western and Eastern Europe.
- Geographically adjacent Norwegian and Russian populations were compared.
- Environmental factors, such as industrial pollution in Russia, were considered.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate atopy prevalence in Norwegian and Russian adults.
- To determine if IgE sensitization differs between these populations.
- To explore potential environmental influences on atopy.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, population-based study.
- Involved 3134 Norwegians and 709 Russians.
- Assessed IgE sensitization using S-Phadiatop and questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Higher IgE sensitization rates observed in Russians (27.5%) compared to Norwegians (20.7%).
- The relative risk of IgE sensitization was 1.49 in Russia.
- Norwegians reported more atopic dermatitis and hay fever, but only atopic dermatitis in women was significant.
Conclusions:
- IgE sensitization is more common in Russia than Norway, diverging from typical East-West European patterns.
- Reported atopic diseases did not align with sensitization levels, suggesting differences in allergy awareness.
- Objective markers are crucial for accurate atopy prevalence comparisons across diverse populations.
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