Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Patients with Allergic Rhinitis Towards Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with allergic rhinitis towards allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted through a questionnaire survey at The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from October 15, 2023, to December 3, 2023. Results A total of 550 valid questionnaires were included in the analysis. The median scores with interquartile ranges (IQR) for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 17 (11, 23), (possible range: 0–34); 20 (17, 22), (possible range: 7–35); and 30 (24, 34), (possible range: 8–40). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that individuals engaging in physical activity 1–3 times per week (OR = 2.895, 95% CI: [1.745, 4.804], P < 0.001), those participating in physical activity 5–7 times per week (OR = 3.811, 95% CI: [1.502, 9.671], P = 0.005), and those with higher knowledge scores (OR = 4.485, 95% CI: [2.942, 6.837], P < 0.001) were independently associated with positive practices. The structural equation modeling (SEM) results revealed that knowledge had a significant influence on attitude (β = −0.354, P = 0.010) and practice (β = 0.618, P = 0.010), and attitude also demonstrated a noteworthy impact on practice (β = −0.120, P = 0.020). Furthermore, it is worth noting that the indirect effects of knowledge on practice were statistically significant (β = 0.042, P = 0.020). Conclusion Patients with allergic rhinitis had inadequate knowledge, negative attitudes and proactive practices towards AIT. To improve their understanding and adherence, healthcare providers should prioritize education and interventions aimed at enhancing patient engagement with this treatment option.