Allergic rhinitis is often undiagnosed and untreated: results from a general population study of Danish adults

A few earlier studies have indicated that allergic rhinitis (AR) is underdiagnosed and undertreated.

To assess awareness, diagnosis and treatment of AR in a general population of Danish adults.

Between October 2007 and June 2008, a total of 1277 consecutive participants in a Danish general population study of 18- to 69-year olds were skin-prick-tested and asked about respiratory symptoms. AR was defined as a combination of self-reported rhinitis symptoms and skin-prick test reactivity against inhalant allergens. Participants reporting rhinitis symptoms completed an additional questionnaire on medication for rhinitis symptoms.

The prevalence of AR was 23.1%. A total of 43.6% (n = 122/280) of persons with AR had not received any treatment in the previous 12 months, and only 56.6% (n = 163/288) had been given a diagnosis of hay fever by a doctor. Both AR and lower airway symptoms indicating more severe AR were reported in 48.5% (n = 143/295). These persons were significantly more likely to having received treatment in previous 12 months and a diagnosis of hay fever.

Our results support that even in an affluent country like Denmark, AR is often undiagnosed and untreated. There appears to be a need for increased awareness of AR with regard to both diagnosis and treatment.