Prevalence and aeroallergen sensitization in pediatric Allergic Rhinitis: A population-based study in Jeju, Korea

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Environmental Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread chronic condition in children, influenced by environmental and genetic factors.
• Understanding regional aeroallergen sensitization is crucial for effective interventions.
• Jeju, Korea, presents a unique environment for studying pediatric AR prevalence and triggers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) among schoolchildren in Jeju, Korea.
• To identify common aeroallergen sensitization patterns in this population.
• To investigate the association between aeroallergen sensitization and AR risk factors.

Main Methods:

• A 2016 cross-sectional study involved 1,067 schoolchildren aged 9-16 years in Jeju.
• Data collection utilized the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire.
• Skin prick tests were performed for 18 common aeroallergens, with logistic regression analysis for risk factors.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of AR was 29.0% in the study population.
• Highest sensitization rates were for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (76.5%), Dermatophagoides farinae (60.9%), and Japanese cedar pollen (39.1%).
• Polysensitivity to multiple aeroallergens significantly increased AR risk (OR 1.58, p=0.042), with younger children showing higher sensitization.

Conclusions:

• Region-specific aeroallergen sensitization patterns are evident in pediatric AR in Jeju.
• High Japanese cedar pollen sensitization warrants further investigation into environmental exposures and prevention.
• Findings emphasize the importance of tailored allergen avoidance and management strategies for pediatric AR.