Trends in Allergic Sensitization and Diseases in the Korean General Population Over a 9-Year Period

The prevalence of allergic sensitization and diseases varies over time due to changes in climate, environment, and lifestyle. This study analyzed changes in sensitization to house dust mites (HDM) and dogs, as well as the prevalence of allergic diseases in the Korean general population over a 9-year period and identified contributing factors.

This cross-sectional study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2010 and 2019. Participants were aged ≥10 years, with the analysis stratified by adolescents (10-18 years) and adults (≥19 years). We evaluated the prevalence of allergic sensitization and diseases and examined links to clinicodemographic factors across the two survey years. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between sensitization and clinicopathological factors.

In total, 4,084 participants (2010: n=2,019, 2019: n=2,065) were enrolled. In 2010, HDM sensitization was 36.9%, declining to 36.6% in 2019. Dog sensitization decreased from 6.1% in 2010 to 5.8% in 2019. There were no significant differences between the two years among total participants; however, dog sensitization increased significantly among adolescents (2010: 8.7% vs. 2019: 15.3%; P=0.027). In 2010, HDM sensitization was negatively associated with urban residence (odds ratio [OR], 0.76; 95% CI, 0.60-0.96) and apartment dwelling (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.95) but was without significance in 2019. In adolescents, dog sensitization was strongly correlated with urban residence (OR, 8.06; 95% CI, 1.53-42.49) in 2010, whereas HDM sensitization was associated with obesity (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.04-3.91) in 2019. In adults, heavy drinking was linked to dog sensitization (OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.20-4.62) in 2010 and HDM sensitization in 2019 (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.03-2.02).

The prevalence of HDM sensitization remained stable over 9 years, while dog sensitization increased in adolescents. The factors associated with sensitization differed between age groups and years. Understanding these trends and related factors in the general population can help healthcare providers develop new strategies to reduce allergic sensitization and diseases.