Sedentary Behavior as a Risk Factor for Nasal Inflammatory Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and chronic sinusitis (CRS) are prevalent upper airway inflammatory diseases with growing public health burdens. Sedentary behavior (SB) has emerged as an independent risk factor for multiple chronic conditions, yet its association with AR and CRS remains unclear.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2017-2018). AR and CRS were defined based on self-reported physician diagnoses. SB was assessed via self-reported daily sedentary time (ST) and categorized as <6, 6 to 8, and ≥ 8 hours/day. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine associations, adjusting for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical covariates. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess potential heterogeneity across population subgroups.

Among 14 748 participants, the weighted prevalence of AR and CRS was 15.8% and 6.5%, respectively. Individuals with prolonged ST exhibited prominently higher prevalence rates of AR and CRS compared to those with low ST. Multivariable analysis indicated high ST (≥ 8 hours/day) was associated with increased odds of AR (OR = 1.161, 95% CI: 1.013, 1.329) and CRS (OR = 1.282, 95% CI: 1.038, 1.584). The association between SB and AR was more pronounced in individuals aged <40 years, alcohol users, those with a high school education, and white-collar workers.

Prolonged ST was associated with a higher prevalence of AR and CRS in Korean adults. These findings highlight the potential public health relevance of SB in relation to upper airway inflammatory diseases; however, longitudinal studies are required to clarify causality and inform preventive strategies.