Association between allergic rhinitis and work productivity in a nonclinical setting: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Epidemiology
• Psychology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is common in Japan, affecting worker productivity.
• Previous research focused on severe AR cases, neglecting milder forms.
• This study investigates AR, including mild cases, and its impact on general working populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between allergic rhinitis (AR) and reduced work productivity.
• To compare absenteeism and presenteeism in AR vs. non-AR groups.
• To explore indirect effects of psychological factors and sleep quality on AR and presenteeism.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey of 555 adult workers in Japan's Kanto region.
• Comparison of absenteeism and presenteeism between AR and non-AR groups.
• Multiple regression and causal mediation analyses to assess AR severity and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• AR severity was significantly associated with increased presenteeism (B=4.19, P<.001).
• No significant differences in absenteeism or presenteeism were found between AR and non-AR groups.
• Depressive symptoms significantly mediated the relationship between AR and presenteeism (TNIE=5.246, P=.047).

Conclusions:

• The overall impact of allergic rhinitis on work productivity may be limited in nonclinical Japanese workforces.
• Depressive symptoms play a significant role in mediating the effect of AR on presenteeism.
• Further research may be needed to understand the nuances of AR's impact on occupational health.