An Indian Cross-Sectional Study to Evaluate In-Clinic Allergic Rhinitis Prevalence in Patients Having Nasal Symptoms...

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread respiratory condition triggered by allergen exposure, posing a significant global health challenge.
• Estimating the prevalence of AR in clinical settings is crucial for effective management and public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis (AR) among patients presenting with nasal symptoms in Indian healthcare facilities.
• To evaluate the utility of the Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) questionnaire as an in-clinic diagnostic tool for AR.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 40,001 patients across 19 Indian states from September 2022 to April 2023.
• The Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) questionnaire was administered, and scores were digitally calculated using the Kribado™ device (≥7 indicating AR).
• Data collected included demographics, symptom patterns, allergen exposure, family history, and physician-diagnosed allergies.

Main Results:

• The study found a high in-clinic prevalence of AR, with 53.7% of patients scoring ≥7 on the SFAR questionnaire.
• Sneezing was the most frequent symptom (69.1%), and house dust mites were the most common allergen (73.8%).
• AR was significantly associated with a positive family history, indoor dust exposure, nasal symptoms, seasonal peaks from October to January, and female gender.

Conclusions:

• The Score for Allergic Rhinitis (SFAR) questionnaire demonstrates significant utility as an in-clinic screening tool for identifying AR in Indian patients.
• Early diagnosis and management of AR are supported by the SFAR tool, particularly in high-risk populations identified in the study.
• Findings highlight the substantial burden of AR in India and underscore the need for targeted interventions.