ANALYSIS OF RISK FACTORS FOR ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN IN LAHORE, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN
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Keywords
Allergic rhinitis; preschool children; risk factors; passive smoking; parental atopy.
Abstract
Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic inflammatory condition of the nasal mucosa that significantly impacts sleep quality, cognitive performance, and overall well-being in children. Its prevalence is increasing globally, particularly in urban areas, due to genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers such as air pollution, indoor allergens, and tobacco smoke exposure. Early identification of risk factors in preschool children is essential for prevention and targeted management.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of AR and to identify genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related risk factors among preschool children in Lahore, Pakistan.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2023 to June 2024 at the pediatric outpatient department of Indus Hospital, Lahore. A total of 300 children aged 3–6 years were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Data were collected through structured parental interviews covering demographics, feeding history, family history of atopy, and environmental exposures. Diagnosis of AR was based on ARIA criteria and confirmed by a pediatrician. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Chi-square tests were used for bivariate analysis, followed by multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors, with results presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results: The prevalence of AR was 37.7% (n=113). Parental atopy, passive smoking, and urban residence were identified as significant predictors. Biomass fuel exposure was associated on univariate analysis but was not statistically significant after adjustment.
Conclusion: AR is highly prevalent among preschool children in Lahore. Both genetic predisposition and modifiable environmental exposures contribute to risk. Implementation of smoke-free home policies improved indoor air quality, and community awareness campaigns may help reduce the burden of disease. Larger multicenter studies with objective allergy testing are warranted for confirmation.
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Assiya Afzal
Senior Medical Officer, Department of Peads Medicine, Indus Hospital, Lahore
Muhammad Faran Sarwar
Consultant ENT Surgeon, Department of ENT, DHQ Toba Tek Singh
Bismah Safdar
Woman Medical Officer, Department of Peads Medicine, DHQ Toba Tek Singh
Saba Bakht
Assistant Professor, Akhter Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore
Saba Bakht
Assistant Professor, Akhter Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore
Saleem Ahmed
Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, University College of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Lahore
Shamaila Zamir
Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, University College of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Lahore