PREVALENCE, RISK FACTORS, AND SYMPTOM PROFILES OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS AMONG SCHOOL-GOING CHILDREN IN INDIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
Allergic Rhinitis, Prevalence, Risk Factors, Symptom Severity, Indian Children, ISAAC, Cross-Sectional Study.
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common chronic allergic disorder in children and is associated with impaired quality of life and reduced academic performance. Epidemiological data describing the burden, risk factors, and symptom patterns of allergic rhinitis among Indian school-going children remain limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of allergic rhinitis, identify associated risk factors, and analyze symptom profiles and their relationship with age among Indian children.
Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted over a 12-month period (January–December 2023). A total of 1,280 children aged 6–17 years were recruited using a multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected using a modified and validated International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire administered to parents or guardians. Allergic rhinitis was defined according to ISAAC criteria. Associations were evaluated using chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression. Correlation between age and symptom severity was assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.
Results: The overall prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 18.4% (236/1280). Significant risk factors included family history of atopy (aOR: 3.12), exposure to tobacco smoke (aOR: 2.05), residence near heavy traffic areas (aOR: 1.89), use of synthetic bedding (aOR: 1.75), and household dampness or mold (aOR: 1.68). A weak but statistically significant positive correlation was observed between age and symptom severity score (r = 0.18, p = 0.007). Sneezing with rhinorrhea was the most frequently reported symptom combination (72.9%).
Conclusion: Allergic rhinitis affects nearly one-fifth of Indian school-going children. Both genetic predisposition and modifiable environmental factors play a significant role. The slight increase in symptom severity with age emphasizes the need for early diagnosis and preventive strategies focusing on environmental control.
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Dr. Kasi Bandaru
Associate Professor, Dept. of Paediatrics, RKDF Medical College & Research Centre, Bhopal
