Prevalence and Risk Factors of Self-Reported Perfume Sensitivity in Saudi Arabia

Perfumes are widely used products; however, several fragrance substances used in perfuming are well-established allergenic substances and have been attributed to various adverse health reactions. The nature and significance of perfume sensitivity reactions have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence, nature, and associated risk factors of self-reported perfume sensitivity among the general population in Saudi Arabia. A nationally representative cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Saudi Arabia in October 2020. Significant associated risk factors were explored using multivariate regression analyses. A total of 1078 participants completed the survey, with a mean age of 36.7 years (SD ± 10.36). Perfume sensitivity reactions were reported in 14.6% of participants. From among these participants, 17.8% reported moderate to severe reactions. Respiratory and skin symptoms were the most reported reactions, with total rates of 40.1% and 35.7%, respectively. History of asthma (OR = 3.2, 95%CI 1.88-4.37, p < 0.001) and the use of counterfeit perfume products (OR = 1.9, 95%CI 1.23-2.94, p < 0.003) were significantly associated with a higher risk of perfume sensitivity. Our study revealed that a considerable number of the general population in Saudi Arabia has experienced adverse health reactions due to perfume products. The enormous volume of the perfume market thus necessitates further quantitative analysis studies to determine the presence of allergenic fragrance substances in perfumes.