Factors associated with Allergic Rhinitis in Colombian subpopulations aged 1 to 17 and 18 to 59

Abstract

Background: Several studies have shown variations in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) around the world, and different potential predisposing factors. More studies are needed on risk factors, specifically in developing countries. This study explored the association of several factors and AR among urban residents in six cities of Colombia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study and a nested case-control study were carried out between 2009 and 2010 involving two Colombian subpopulations: children/adolescents and adults. Cases were affirmative respondents to "In the past 12 months, have you (or your child) had a problem with sneezing or a running or blocked nose, when you (or your child) did not have a cold or the flu?" "Controls" were subjects who never had been diagnosed with asthma, AR or atopic eczema by a physician, and whom did not report any symptoms in the past twelve months. Weighted logistic regression was used to assess the association of different factors with case/control status. Results: Factors associated with AR in children/adolescents were family history of AR, acetaminophen consumption and high socioeconomic status. Among adults, family history of asthma, AR and atopic eczema, and cetaminophen consumption were associated with AR. Consumption of cereals among children/adolescents and eating eggs among adults showed protective associations. Conclusions: Our findings suggest the presence of previously unknown cultural, environmental and family factors associated with the presence of AR in Colombia.

Factors associated with allergy traits around the 2nd year of life: a brazilian cohort study

“…Higher socioeconomic status values were associated with higher allergy trait values around the 2nd year of life, mediated by family allergy. Other studies have also identified that better socioeconomic level and a family history of allergies are associated with the development of allergic rhinitis, food allergy, and atopic dermatitis in children [12,25]. According to the hygiene hypothesis, children from families that have more access to urban and industrialized environments, with better hygiene and lower microbiological exposure that decrease infection rates and immune regulation in childhood are likely to have a higher prevalence of allergic disease [26].…”